The art of hand-painting photographs dates back to the early 1900s, before color film was invented, and before the advent of digital technology. Photographic images were processed onto fiber-based papers which easily absorbed oils, allowing for both colorization and artistic interpretation. Though no longer a necessity, hand-painted photographs are an art form that is still facilitated by specific materials and techniques. With a variety of photographic paper surfaces available on the market today, and the accessibility of photographic paints through the Internet, learning the art of painting images is more attainable than ever.
Instructions
Preparing and Painting the Photograph
1. Choose whether to start with a color or a black-and-white photograph. Color photographs can be easily converted to black-and-white with any photo imaging software (including free versions.) Print your chosen image onto either matte or semi-matte archival printing papers. Make sure the surface is flat and free of dust and fingerprints. For a smoother paper surface, use a surface preparation solvent like Marshall's PM solution or a pre-color spray.
2. The majority of painted photographs are created using "photo oils", which are translucent and allow the underlying photograph to remain visible. Photo oils are available in tubes, with dozens of shades and intensities, or in pencil form. Choose the colors you wish to use and squeeze very small amounts onto a palette or board (or even waxed paper or a paper plate.)
3. Apply color onto the photograph as desired, using 100 percent cotton balls for larger areas, and cotton swabs for more detailed work. Begin in the middle and work outward (or top to bottom) to prevent smearing of your image. For minute details such as eyes or lips, or leaves and flowers, wrap a small amount of 100 percent cotton onto the tip of a toothpick and use as a paintbrush. If using photo oil pencils, coat photo first with PM solution, and use pencils lightly to prevent photograph from being damaged.
4. Experiment with colors and shading until you find a style and intensity that you like. Oils can be removed up until the point that they are completely dry, using either a small amount of PM solution or a vinyl eraser (regular "pink" erasers shed and stick in the oils.)
5. Allow prints to dry for about a week, or use a drying medium or fixative spray, available at art supply stores. Keep in a dust-free environment during the drying process. Frame with glass and keep away from direct sunlight if possible.
