What is important when choosing a reference photo for a drawing?

If you would like me to create a portrait for you, the best option is for me to take the reference photograph myself. However, if that isn't possible, it's important that the reference photo is an original image, without any editing or filters.

You really have a talent.

I believe anyone can learn to draw. I wasn't born with exceptional drawing skills. In fact, when I was 18, I was incredibly bad at drawing. That's when I made the decision that I was going to become good at it.

It has taken me more than 30 years to reach the level I'm at today. The reason I'm here isn't talent alone—it's thousands of hours of practice, patience, and never giving up.

It takes hard work, dedication, and a genuine passion for what you do.

What other interests do you have?

Photography is another passion of mine. I especially enjoy street and portrait photography.

A while ago, I started studying photography, although I never completed the program. Even so, that knowledge has been incredibly valuable. The way I work, a solid understanding of photography is a real advantage, since photography plays an essential role in creating my own reference images for my drawings.

What type of paper do you use for your drawings?

I use Daler-Rowney Smooth Heavyweight 220 gsm and Hahnemühle Nostalgie 190 gsm Smooth paper. Both are acid-free.

It's important that the paper isn't too thin. The heavier the paper, the more durable it is and the better it can withstand the many layers of graphite used in the drawing process

What is hyperrealism?

Hyperrealism is a genre of drawing, painting, and sculpture that aims to create artworks with a level of realism comparable to today's high-resolution photographs. The goal is to make the subject appear so lifelike that it feels as though they are standing right in front of you.

Some of the leading artists in this genre include Kelvin Okafor, C J Hendry, and Jono Dry.

How is it possible to be so patient?

Drawing is my passion, and for me, it´s a form of therapy. The longer I spend working on a drawing, the more I enjoy the process.

That´s one of the reason hyperrealism suits me so well, it demands patience, and I genuinely love taking the time to bring a portrait to life.

Do you do anything besides drawing?

Yes. I also use digital drawing as part of my creative process before I begin the final artwork.

I use it to sketch ideas, experiment with compositions, and develop the design that I want—or the one my client and I have agreed on. For this stage of the process, I work with Procreate, Adobe Lightroom, and Adobe Photoshop on my iPad with an Apple Pencil.

Once the concept is finalized, I begin the hand-drawn portrait.