6 TIPS FOR CREATING NATURAL-LOOKING SHADOWS

1. Observe Real Shadows

Look closely at your reference or real-life animals. Notice how shadows fade and change in softness depending on the light source.

2. Match the Light Source

Make sure your shadow direction and intensity match the lighting in your portrait. Inconsistent shadows can make the subject look “floating.”

3. Use Soft Edges

Blend the shadow edges gently into the background to avoid hard lines, unless your light is very direct.

4. Layer Colors, Not Just Black

Mix colors from your background and subject into the shadow for a natural feel—pure black can look flat and lifeless.

5. Mind the Weight

Keep shadows slightly lighter than you think—darker areas can always be deepened later, but lifting too-dark pastel is tricky.

6. Test Before Committing

Try shadow colors and shapes on a scrap piece of pastel paper before adding them to your final piece.

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