Description

Ideal for turning strong or complex photos into fragile, understated picture-book metaphors for literary visuals, independent publishing, and exhibition pieces. The upper half retains a recognizable version of the original image; the lower half keeps only its most symbolic features, forming a small, isolated figure. Surround it with an enormous amount of empty space and, at most, one extremely faint cast shadow. Opaque gouache with thin watercolor, dry-brush marks, pencil, uneven blacks, and hesitant edges. The main colors are charcoal black, ivory white, and soft gray, with warm peach or pale apricot used only as tiny accents. A little dark but not frightening, a little awkward but not cutesy. Avoid smooth finishes, polished CG, commercial cartoons, complex backgrounds, and cinematic lighting.