Whether you are a painter or a fabric artist, taking your own reference photos can be one of the most powerful tools in your creative process. For me, having a library of reference photos to refer to is not just helpful, it's essential in developing new ideas and in crafting the finishing stitches in my work.

Photos capture the precise details that our memory simply can't keep track of. Whether it be a reflection on a lake or the colours in a leaf, photos can freeze a moment in time that we can then go back to in order to study the subtle details. If you are striving to create realism in your work (which I often do), the colours and lines of a reference photograph can make all the difference.📸

Taking your own reference photos is truly like creating a personalized, ever-growing database of things you appreciate. Looking through my camera roll, I see a clear reflection of my interests and experiences. It is obvious what catches my eye (Hello, big skies and trees!🌳🌅) and I think embracing the elements that I love has helped me develop my artistic style.

I enjoy finding beauty in the outdoors, and by taking my camera along on a nature hike, I know I become more aware of the details I am passing by.🌿 It turns my everyday experiences into creative opportunities.

The reference photos I take can basically be categorized into two types: Landscape and Individual Element.

Landscape photos are used for composition, layout and mood. They are wonderful to use in developing patterns for landscapes and also to use in my thread paintings where the image is transferred to cotton prior to stitching. I take these photos with intention, watching for focal points and good composition.

Individual element reference photos are used in an entirely different way. They are generally close-up images, used for colour and shape. It is not as important that they be perfect, but are wonderful for colour reference and ideas for detailed stitching. Not all reference photos have to be picturesque views! They can be zoomed in pictures of plants, rocks, or whatever catches your attention. Some of my reference photos are taken to capture shapes and colours, while others were prompted by unique lighting and shadows.

 If you are someone who is inspired by photos, instead of relying on generic images you find online, begin taking photos of what catches your eye. Over time, you'll see a collection of pictures that are curated to show your personal interests in a way that is a reflection of your unique style, something no one else can replicate.