Scarlet Tanager and Goldfinch images

[AndreaMG]

Terrific little fellas! I especially like the latter because of the background with the stylized clouds and the more dynamic composition, but they are both super cool. If you haven't yet you can take a look at Ostogar's birds thread ... https://forums.artrage.com/showthrea...w-September-16

[RedSaucers]

Amazing, the texture of the feathers is incredible!

[DarkOwnt]

MM:

Your work is excellent. Bird lovers would love a tutorial on birds and feathers in ArtRage...

[MickeyMaguire]

Here is a close-up of the Scarlet Tanager's head. It shows the brush strokes in excellent detail. The feather strokes are a mix of color so they mimic the natural variation within bird feathers. Solid colors look very two-dimensional. The "catch light" in bird eyes often have two highlights due to light reflecting off leaves. Good reference photos are hard to get. Bird photography takes patience and a minimum of 500mm lens. Clarity is extremely important. I shoot professionally, so, I have the gear.

[Bobbi]

I am envious that you got the feet done so well. Something I cannot seem to get right.

[MickeyMaguire]

I am envious that you got the feet done so well. Something I cannot seem to get right.

I used the "oil brush" with a dry brush with "tiny daubs" preset from the list. I use very slight variations in color and apply perpendicular strokes on the talons. It gives them a natural segmented look. I also love the way this brush setting goes from heavy to light with each brush-stroke. That helps make round shapes look three-dimensional. I use the same brush setting, but smaller size, for the claws. Another way to make the claws and beak look smooth is to use a wet brush and blend the "paint" over dry-brush strokes.

[D Akey]

Boy, that close up really gives a good look at just how perfect the detailing is. Really excellent work.