Painting from your own photos of your own life is a very satisfying experience.

It can really elevate your painting practice to a whole new level so I have 10 easy tips that you can use to improve your own reference photography - with your phone camera - for better paintings.

Sometimes you get an idea for a painting but you just can’t find the right photo reference for what you have in mind.

Luckily, it is possible to combine multiple references to create the image that you are after. However, there are a few potential pitfalls to avoid.

Let’s review them and figure out the best approach to painting from two or more reference photos.

Where does a painter find the inspiration for a watercolour painting?

Do you need to be in front of a stunning landscape or a perfectly styled still life?
Thankfully, not!

I think we can often find the best inspiration to pick up that brush from the littlest things in our everyday life.

Yes, even on the most ordinary of days.