For my “First Monday Image” I was going to try something a little different. I had planned on showing a step-by-step example from idea to finished product of one of my little drawing-computer painting hybrids. This process usually takes between one and two hours. The problem is I could not think of anything to draw so I decided to do a self-portrait. Well, that changed everything.

It’s How I feel Sometimes

Here is the photo I started with. I wasn’t trying to do a total reproduction – I have the photo.

Since I usually don’t draw faces and when I do, I don’t try to draw a specific person, I decided to do a few quick sketches to get some practice. Here is my favorite. It’s a five minute sketch.

OK, a few sketches under my belt I decided to sit down and do the drawing. I thought it was great and left it for a few hours. When I came back I looked at it and my heart dropped. Although I liked it, it wasn’t what I was looking for. With the oversize eyes it looks like a Manga.

OK, although it was getting late I decided to try again. I spent a little more time, over an hour, to make this drawing.

Much better.

Quick photo and into the computer to “paint”.

I had originally planned on showing a step-by-step, saving it every few minutes so you could see how I develop these pictures. I think some people think it’s a little less since I do it on the computer instead of the open air so I wanted to show the process. Well, I started working and an hour and half later I looked up and it was finished.

From beginning of first sketch to finished product was over four hours, more than twice my usual drawing. What do you think? Was it worth it?

Yes, I’m the guy who does selfies with pencils and virtual paint.