When I was younger I thought painting landscapes from photographs was a seriously bad idea. The photo flattened reality in an obvious way. I arrogantly thought I could spot one instantly. Then a mentor showed me his process and his fresh results. Then along came digital cameras and their amazing software. Then it dawned on me, I didn`t have to sit in the sun with my sketchbook every time. I could take a picture. Now the plein air experience is truly valuable much like drawing from the figure. With a companion or a group it`s a fun opportunity to be social and working. But no doubt about it, the camera is quicker. On a trip to Ashland in 2004 I sat in the backseat sketching and taking photos from the moving car. The picture above led to the small study which begat the larger watercolor which someday may become an even bigger oil painting. Just from a casual snapshot.
