The Making of Lucky & Gus

Photoshop helped with this layout

These good ole' southern pups "Gus & Lucky" are a combination of two photos. It was difficult for their owner to get a good picture of both of them together, so I created this layout to show their love for each other.

Gus

Lucky

​In photoshop I removed the background and combined the two dogs, positioning them in a somewhat realistic pose. I now have my reference photo for the painting.
Before I start painting I do a quick value sketch and think about my color choices.

Photoshop

Quick sketch for values