How to Choose the Right Reference (Beginner Tip)

If you’re a beginner watercolor artist, one of the biggest struggles isn’t technique—it’s knowing what to paint and which reference to choose.

A good painting reference can make watercolor feel calm and enjoyable. The wrong one can make you feel stuck before you even begin.

Let’s talk about why references matter and how to choose one that supports you instead of overwhelming you.

Why Painting References Are Important (Especially for Beginners)

Painting from reference is not cheating. It’s how artists learn to see.

A reference helps you:

• Understand light and dark values

• Recognize simple shapes instead of random details

• See color relationships clearly

• Paint with intention instead of guessing

For watercolor artists, this is especially important. Watercolor reacts quickly, and when you don’t have clarity, it’s easy to overwork or panic-correct.

A reference gives you direction before the brush touches paper.

Why Beginners Feel Overwhelmed by References

Most photos are not meant to be paintings.

They often include:

• Too many details

• Busy backgrounds

• Multiple light sources

• High contrast and visual noise

When a reference feels overwhelming, it doesn’t mean you lack skill. It simply means the reference isn’t beginner-friendly.

This is a mindset shift that alone can remove a lot of frustration.

How to Choose the Right Painting Reference

When selecting a reference, ask:

• Can I simplify this into 3–4 main shapes?

• Is the light clear?

• Do I feel calm looking at it?

If the answer is no, choose another reference.

If a photo feels overwhelming, it’s not the artist—it’s the reference.

A good beginner reference feels quiet, simple, and spacious.

You Don’t Need One Perfect Photo

One of the biggest misconceptions beginners have is thinking they must paint from a single perfect image.

Instead:

• Use one photo for the sky

• Another for water movement

• Another for color inspiration

This removes pressure and encourages creativity instead of copying.