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How to Add a Grid to a Reference ImageHow to Build a Color Palette From a Reference PhotoHow to Check Values in Your Painting (Using Black and White)Adjust Image Settings of Your Reference PhotoHow to Compare Progress Images to Your Reference Photo
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  • How to Compare Progress Images to Your Reference Photo

Compare Your Painting to the Reference Photo

You have your grid in place and the drawing is done, maybe you have already started painting. At some point you want to check how close you are to the reference. Are the proportions right? Did something shift slightly? Does something feel off but you cannot quite tell what it is?

Uploading a progress image and comparing it to the reference makes these problems much easier to spot.

1. Upload a progress image

In the Progress images section, click the + button.

You can:

  • Browse and upload an image from your device
  • Take a photo directly

The image will appear on top of your reference.

Upload a progress image

2. Align the progress image

Make sure your progress image matches the canvas frame and the reference image.

Only the part inside the frame is visible, so anything outside will be cropped. Adjust your image until it lines up as closely as possible.

If needed, adjust your frame first so it matches your painting proportions.

Learn how to adjust canvas frame / crop image

3. Adjust transparency

Use the transparency slider to make the progress image partially transparent.

This lets you see both:

  • Your painting (on top)
  • The reference image (below)

You can quickly spot:

  • shifted proportions
  • incorrect angles
  • misplaced elements

Compare reference photo with your painting or drawing in progress by lowering opacity

4. Toggle visibility

Turn the progress image on and off.

This makes it easier to compare:

  • with overlay (alignment check)
  • without overlay (overall impression)

Switching between the two often reveals mistakes immediately.

5. Use multiple progress images

You can upload several progress images.

For example:

  • initial drawing
  • block-in stage
  • later painting stages

Turn them on and off as needed and adjust transparency to compare different stages of your work.

Tips for taking a good progress photo

A good photo makes comparison much easier.

  • Keep the camera parallel to the canvas to avoid distortion
  • Avoid shooting at an angle
  • Use even lighting without strong shadows
  • Fill the frame with the painting
  • Keep the same position for consistent comparisons

Small perspective errors can make alignment harder than it should be.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I upload a progress image?
Use the + button in the Progress images section and choose a file or take a photo.
How do I compare it to the reference?
Adjust transparency and toggle visibility to compare overlay and overall shapes.
Is the image aligned automatically?
No. You need to align it manually with the frame.
What if my drawing or painting is off?
That is the point of the comparison. Adjust the drawing or repaint the area before continuing.
How many progress images can I upload?
There is no fixed limit.
What if the colors look different?
Cameras and screens vary, so exact color matching is unreliable. Focus on values and proportions first. If those are correct, color adjustments are much easier to fix.

Upload a reference photo and start painting!

Try Paint From Photos and simplify your painting process right now!

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