To be an optimist means to keep looking for the good things in life. Sometimes they can be as simple as a ray of sunshine. Here is an illustration of mine revolving around the topics of choice, long journeys, peace, and happiness. What brings positivity in your life?

Ideation

Everything starts with an idea, with a story you want to tell. Or a way you want to make the viewer feel.

Character and Palette

I always draw the characters first as they dictate the colors and textures for the rest of the elements. Here I wanted to create an illustration that is partially moody as well as dramatically lit. That is why I decided to go for a bit of a washed-out palette and pump the contrast for the more important elements.

Big Shapes

After completing the character, I moved on to drafting her surroundings by using very big, simple shapes without putting too much effort into perfecting them.

From Big to Small

After I was happy with the way my scene was laid out, I moved onto adding smaller and smaller elements.

And There Was Light!

Finally, I added the most important touch: the light. Light can tell a story like no other and can change the whole scene in a dramatic way.

Tiny Tweaks

I finished the design by adding a few color correction filters, textures, and other small adjustments to harmonize the illustration and give it that extra something! Also, I felt like the girl needed her cute bird companion.

Thank you!

How does my process compare to yours? Feel free to let me know! :)