Plan your watercolor painting
I start by developing a good design and an idea of how I am going to progress with my painting. This is achieved during the drawing stage.
Time of Day
Now I try and get my paintings done in the early hours of the day and late in the afternoon. If I have to paint in the middle of the day I make sure I have some shade to work under either natural or by using an umbrella.
Crookhaven Heads, early morning plein air painting
Minimise Atmospheric Problems
I try to stay out of the wind. This is not always possible however, especially if you have limited time at a location that you really want to paint. The two Venice paintings here were done in quite a stiff breeze but as it was very late in the day and not too warm I got away with it.
I may also spray my paper lightly with water to give me a little more time before it dries. I have to allow for this in my paint mixes however as the extra water on my paper will further dilute my paint.
