Gouache paint can add an individual touch to photographs.
Before color photography, hand coloring a photograph was a popular way to make it more lifelike. Today, many artists paint on photographs to reinterpret the image and create a new work of art. Gouache, an opaque watercolor paint, used to be a preferred medium for photo retouchers and can be used on most surfaces. It is a very flexible medium, and can be combined with watercolors or other water-based paints. Gouache can be used for a wide range of painting techniques, and can be manipulated even after it is dry.
Instructions
1. Prepare your photograph. You can paint directly onto photographic paper but many artists prefer to print the photo onto a heavy fiber-based paper, to make it last longer. You might choose to print the photograph slightly lighter than usual, to allow the colors to stand out.
2. Choose your paints. Gouache is available in a wide range of colors, in tubes, jars and powdered forms. Some specialist art stores sell grey-valued gouache paints, which are designed to be used on black-and-white photographs, complementing the grey tones.
3. Clip your photo to an easel, securing it with a pin or easel clip in each corner.
4. Dip your brush in water, then use it to mix the paint to your chosen consistency. Apply to the photograph. You can thin it to a transparent wash, like a watercolor, or use it to bulid up thick layers, like oil paints. You might choose to paint the whole photograph, or simply to highlight certain details.
5. Wash your brush between colors. Remember to change your water frequently, as it can quickly become dirty and damage your brushes. Wash them thoroughly once you've finished, and allow to air dry.
6. Allow the paint to dry to a matte finish. Take care with your finished work, as it won't be waterproof. Some artists mix gouache with acrylic paints to make it more durable. Alternatively, frame your photograph behind glass.
