How to Spot What's Off in a Finished Piece

When a completed artwork feels "off," identifying the issue can be challenging. Here are three practical tips to address this problem. Subscribe to unlock this content if you haven't already:

1. Check Composition and Balance

Check the visual flow. Is the focal point clear, or are elements competing for attention? Use the rule of thirds or leading lines to assess balance. Step back or view a thumbnail to spot distracting areas or a weak focal point. Adjust by repositioning elements or tweaking contrast to guide the viewer's eye.

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2. Check your values! (Lighting and Shadows)

Lighting sets the mood and depth, and it's the backbone of contrast. Examine if light sources are consistent and if shadows match that light. Misplaced lighting can disrupt harmony. Test adjustments like softening background lights or increasing contrast near the focal point to create depth and coherence.

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3. Adjust With Filters

I don't like to use this step to make core corrections in my artworks, but sometimes it really brings back the life I wasn't able to capture. Check if the palette feels cohesive or if hues clash. Try applying a subtle filter (e.g., slight desaturation or warm/cool tones) to unify the piece. Use reference images or color theory to ensure the tones support the intended mood. If you've seen any of my previous process videos, you'll notice how I do this using the selective color filter and levels.

Final Note

Take a break to refresh your perspective, then revisit the piece with fresh eyes. Small tweaks, like adjusting light intensity or color balance, can transform a "good" piece into a great one. If you want to dive deeper, check out this article where I discuss defining clear goals, refining execution, and managing unnecessary information:

Chasing Perfection: When Is Your Artwork Really Finished? - 3 Key Tips/Solutions

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You can now pre-order my book Life in Every Sketch on the 3DTotal shop.

https://rebrand.ly/The-Art-of-RamonN90

Please let me know if you have any questions, I’ll be happy to help with art advice or book details.