Stop Scrolling Pinterest for Character Art
A useful reference board explains what you like about each image. It does not need fifty almost-right characters. A few labeled references help an artist understand the face, outfit and mood without guessing which parts belong together.
Jan
2 min read
A useful reference board explains what you like about each image. It does not need fifty almost-right characters. A few labeled references help an artist understand the face, outfit and mood without guessing which parts belong together.
If you keep saving another portrait because the hair is close, stop and name what you are still looking for. The missing detail is a better search prompt than “fantasy character.”
Sort references by the decision they answer
| Reference | Useful note |
|---|---|
| Face or expression | “The relaxed smile, not the eye color.” |
| Clothes or equipment | “The high collar and loose sleeves. No embroidery.” |
| Composition or lighting | “A close crop with warm side light.” |
These are hypothetical labels. The point is to give every reference a job and make the limits visible.
Check that the pieces agree
A heavy winter coat, bare shoulders and desert travel gear may come from three attractive images that describe three different designs. Choose which environment and version of the character you are actually commissioning.
If you want an unusual combination, explain why. A snowy-city character wearing ceremonial summer clothes can make sense in a particular scene. The artist needs that context.
Keep the original source with the image
Pinterest can lead you to useful inspiration, but a pin is not a licence to reproduce the artwork. Look for the original artist or source and keep that link with your notes.
Ask for the feeling, feature or construction you like rather than a near-copy of someone else's finished character. For work you intend to publish commercially, establish the permissions you need with the relevant rights holders.
Write the parts the board cannot show
Some of your best details will have no reference. A ring is worn inside out because the character is hiding its crest. A sleeve is repaired in a deliberately different color. The artist cannot infer those choices from the pictures.
Put them in a short essentials list. Keep “must stay” separate from “ideas I am happy to change.”
Send a board someone can follow
Open it as if you were seeing the character for the first time. Remove duplicate images, broken links and references you have changed your mind about. Add a short summary at the top.
See how to send your references with a commission brief when the board is ready.
