Why & How to Add Movement to Your Illustrations
Illustration by Myriam Vázquez.
Let's talk about: Movement!
Welcome to my Let’s Talk About It Series! These are super speedy tips written to give you a burst of info that will benefit you: the freelance illustrator. Our goal: To give you the tools to empower your portfolio.
This is one of the key elements in illustration. If you can successfully draw movement, I applaud you!
🍃Movement can elevate & enhance all styles & make your personal style stand out amidst the endless sea of illustrators. Movement is for all audiences: board book, picture book, cover art, etc…
🍃Movement is everywhere: in the air around us, the steps we take, and the water we drink.
🍃Successful illustration of movement is when the viewer feels the movement as their eyes take in the illustration.
🍃They feel the wind pushing the character forward, lifting the hot air balloon in the air, the pull of the ocean tide, force of the waves splashing, propulsion in the dancers legs.
🍃In short, movement allows you to elevate your portfolio by creating a subtext for the viewer to experience in their own way.
🍃 So, how can you incorporate movement into your illustration?
Here are just a few tips:
- Body position: Make sure to depict accurate body weight distribution within your characters. Note the location of your illustration (on earth, in water, outer space) & see how gravity impacts the character.
- Draw the air: add some brush strokes that depict air. Be it wavy lines, sparkles, color, or objects (such as falling leaves) that show they are falling or flying allowing the viewer to "see" the air.
- Distortion: As we know body weight, air, etc... affects the things they touch. If a gust of wind comes along it will push you forward, potentially bending your back or setting you off balance. If a gust of wind pushes a cloud, it may distort the cloud. Add distortions & interesting shapes to 'normal' characters and objects to help you create a visual understanding of movement.
🍃 This is one of the many topics we go even deeper into in the Online Course (check it out here) and the 1-1 consultations email illustrationinitiative@gmail.com and ask to be signed up today!
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