When starting with art, both tracing and winging it can be beneficial, depending on your goals and what you want to achieve. Here are some considerations for each approach:
Tracing:
Pros:
- Understanding Proportions: Tracing can help you understand proportions and shapes, especially if you’re new to drawing.
- Confidence Building: It can boost your confidence as you see recognizable forms emerge more quickly.
- Improve Techniques: Helps you focus on technique and line quality without the added pressure of creativity.
Cons:
- Limited Creativity: Relying too much on tracing can stifle your creativity and original thought.
- Skill Development: You may miss out on developing your hand-eye coordination and freehand skills if you rely solely on tracing.
Winging It (Freehand Drawing):
Pros:
- Creative Freedom: Encourages you to express your ideas and emotions without restrictions.
- Skill Development: Helps develop your drawing skills, hand-eye coordination, and understanding of anatomy and perspective.
- Personal Style: Aids in discovering your unique artistic style over time.
Cons:
- Frustration: It can be challenging and may lead to frustration if your skills are still developing.
- Time-Consuming: It may take longer to achieve your desired results compared to tracing.
Conclusion:
Consider using both methods as part of your practice. You might start by tracing to understand different elements, then gradually shift towards freehand drawing as you build confidence and skills. The key is to enjoy the process and find what works best for you!