Time to take a break from my camera and get back to some drawing.  As frustrating as editing photos can be, it’s nothing compared to the challenges of drawing by hand.  There are so many things I would love to draw, but the task would be so time consuming I never even start.  The point of this article is to encourage all of you artists out there not to neglect the pencil.  Drawing by hand refines observation skills and this will transfer over into all other areas, including photography. 

One of my favorite ways to practice drawing is to draw from wedding magazines.  These magazines are usually packed with beautiful photography of all kinds, but especially fabric.  Pleated fabric, ruffled fabric, layered and textured fabric.  Shiny buttons, glistening jewels, and intricate beading are other challenges readily available in these magazines.  There’s nothing like trying to draw a woman in a designer wedding dress to give your fingers, eyes, and brain a good workout. 

Here’s an example of a simple dress with lots of drapes and folds. 

They say art makes you smarter,so why not try to sketch a billowing bridal gown or two before that next exam?