This is probably a pretty basic question!

[DownsideUp]

Hi guys, just a n00bish question about shading.

Some articles recommend starting with a mid tone, then shading down, and then highlights. Then others say to start with a deep shade and just highlight up. Then others seem to shade/use washes halfway through highlighting.

I know theres probably no right or wrong way to do things, but I just want to know what ways people prefer - are there some techniques better for different types of surfaces?

Sorry if it seems a daft question, but I want to get better!

 

[devoncodain]

I base coat in a mid tone, wash, then highlight.

 

[freakinacage]

My approach changes with the/my wind...

Whatever floats yer boat tbh

 

[Dragonsreach]

Downsideup; welcome.
There isn't one solid way to paint miniatures.
I use all the techniques you mention and vary their use according to my needs at the time.
For example when I'm painting in metallics I do go Darkest to Lightest
For skin I use my base colour as the starting point and work tones into shadow areas and then work back the base coat and on through the highlights.
For something like a flowing cloak I try to go mid tone then shadow tone then highlight then back and forth between mid tone, shadow and highlight trying to get the right "look".

So inessence learn to use them all and choose which one works best for you in any given situation.

 

[Einion]

I know theres probably no right or wrong way to do things...

:good:

Up to a point it basically doesn't matter how you do it, long as you're happy with the results. Here, sometimes what works best will depend on the colour you're doing - with some paints it just doesn't look right if you start with the shadow and then try to highlight up from there, due to the transparency of the lighter paints (commercial colours or mixtures you've made yourself).

Einion