Why Reference Matters More Than You Think
You can know all the rules of art and still feel like a rookie the second you start something new. That’s the thing about art—it doesn’t hand you answers. It dares you to make them. And that pressure? It messes with more artists than you think.
Beyond skill, two things help artists push through: mental resilience and reference.
This post is all about reference—because it was the most requested topic after my last video. Let’s break down why it’s essential, how to use it correctly, and how pros transform reference into a springboard for imagination.
The Myth: “Real Artists Don’t Need Reference”
Have you ever heard someone say, “Real artists don’t need reference”? Maybe you’ve even felt guilty pulling up a photo while drawing, like you were somehow cheating.
Let’s clear that up.
From da Vinci to Caravaggio, from Sargent to Norman Rockwell, the greatest artists in history had one thing in common: they used reference. Constantly. Intentionally. And unapologetically.
Reference has always been part of the artistic process—not a shortcut, but a tool. From sketching live models in the Renaissance to photo shoots staged by illustrators, and now to today’s digital libraries, 3D models, and online tools, reference is how artists bring accuracy, believability, and creativity into their work.
It’s not cheating—it’s professional.
3 Rules for Using Reference the Right Way
1. Purpose First: Stay Focused
Don’t grab random images. Every reference should serve a clear design goal—whether it’s shape, lighting, cultural inspiration, or form.
✅ Curate boards that are stylistically consistent.
✅ Avoid cluttered or contradictory sheets.
✅ Stay intentional—if it doesn’t support your vision, cut it.
Example: For my Cloud Strife demo, I built a board focused on blocky proportions and that ‘90s edge, instead of mixing too many unrelated styles.
2. Quality Over Quantity
A handful of strong, relevant images will always beat a messy collection of 50.
Technical Reference → anatomy, lighting, perspective, materials. (This grounds your work in reality.)
Aesthetic Reference → mood, style, visual storytelling. (This sets the tone and emotion.)
Don’t rely solely on other artists’ designs. Pull from the real world whenever possible, then stylize.
3. Use Diverse Tools
Go beyond Google Images. Expand your toolbox:
Sketchfab → for 3D scans of real objects and figures.
Blender → for lighting studies and perspective checks.
Pose tools / Stock photos → for anatomy and gesture.
Photography → for unique angles and authentic context.
For my Cloud piece, I combined stock figure shots, Sketchfab 3D scans, Blender block-ins, and cultural inspiration to rebuild the design from scratch.
Reference Builds Authenticity (and Avoids Stereotypes)
Good reference isn’t just about accuracy—it’s about respect and clarity.
Especially when you’re designing outside your own culture or knowledge base, reference prevents vague or stereotypical depictions. It gives you context to create with intention.
Instead of guessing, you’re designing with purpose—and that makes your work more believable and meaningful.
Reference as Support, Not a Crutch
Think of reference like a creative support team:
One image informs lighting.
Another clarifies costume details.
Another sets the mood.
If an image isn’t helping you hit your goal, drop it. Keep your board lean and purposeful.
👉 Pro Tip: Tracing over 3D models isn’t harmful—if you learn from it. Use it to study structure, simplify forms, or test angles. But balance it with freehand practice to build your visual library.
Rule of Thumb: If your confidence and speed improve over time without leaning on the model, you’re using reference the right way.
Common Questions About Reference
Q: How much time should I spend gathering references?
As long as it takes to fill the gaps in your knowledge. Outline your goals first, then build databases over time—stock photos, 3D assets, cultural collections.
Think of reference gathering as investing in your visual library.
Q: How can I design from reference without just copying?
Observation alone isn’t enough. Learn architectural vocabulary and historical context when designing environments, for example.
Ask:
What’s this made of?
Why is it built this way?
What problem is it solving?
Group references by function or culture, not just looks. Label shapes (arches, gables, domes, etc.). This way you’re learning principles—not just replicating images.
Final Thoughts: Use Reference Like a Pro
Reference isn’t there to rob you of originality. It’s there to support, inform, and strengthen your vision.
Be intentional with what you choose.
Mix technical + aesthetic reference.
Use tools beyond Google.
Challenge yourself to go beyond copying.
That balance is what turns reference into one of the most powerful creative tools in your arsenal.