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The Secret to Portrait Backgrounds That Add Energy—Not Distraction
Ever feel like your portraits are missing something, but you can’t quite figure out what?
If your painting feels tight, static, or lifeless, the problem isn’t your subject—it’s your background.
A stiff, overworked background can flatten a painting. But a painterly, intentional background? That’s where the magic happens. It adds energy, movement, and cohesion—without pulling focus from your subject.
In this video, you’ll learn:
✅ How to use a vision board to plan backgrounds that enhance (not compete with) your subject
✅ The digital mockup trick that removes all the guesswork before you even start painting
✅ A step-by-step method to practice expressive brushwork so you can execute backgrounds with confidence
Stop struggling with backgrounds that feel too chaotic, too tight, or just off. This method will help you paint with more freedom and intention—so your portraits finally sing.
🖌️ What’s your biggest struggle with backgrounds? Drop a comment below! 👇
⏳ Timestamps
2:30 Step 1: Create a Vision Board for Your Backgrounds
15:29 Step 2: Make a Digital Mock-up Before You Paint
18:23 Step 3: Isolate and Practice Background Brushwork Separately
🎵 Music
All music courtesy of Epidemic Sound! 🎶
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Some of the above links (marked with a *) are affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.