What is a viewfinder frame? it is an adjustable see-through frame which allows you to examine a potential drawing subject from different viewpoints. It helps you compose your drawing by removing distracting clutter from view. It reminded me of filmmaker characters I’ve seen on TV, who use a “finger frame” (thumb and forefinger on each hand joined into a rectangle) to picture a scene from different angles.
Composition is an important element of drawing – it is the arrangement of various facets of your subject within the drawing space. A strong composition brings the attention of the viewer to what you consider to be the most important elements in your drawing. You can see how an adjustable viewfinder frame would be useful in helping you determine what makes a strong composition.
The process is very simple – cut two identical L-shaped cardboard pieces and join with paperclips to create a square or rectangular frame. Small frames are ideal for drawing from photographs, while larger frames are generally used for drawing subjects from life.
In this exercise Brenda draws from a photograph, and demonstrates how she uses a frame to help compose the subject, and a grid to help her keep track of where she is working as she draws. She also reduces some of the shading values in her drawing to lessen the distraction from the focal point in her drawing (in this case, a child’s face).
I shall see if I can find a suitable photo and have a go at this myself.
Next lesson is B01 – Positive and Negative Spaces
http://www.drawspace.com/lessons/lesson.php?id=b01
Jo and I are doing this online drawing course together. It is located at Drawspace.com and produced from lessons created by Brenda Hoddinott.
Hi Liss,
I’m really enjoying these drawing lessons. I’m also not far behind you.