Sage Mode Process

Here is the step by step of my last post on how I approach these Morf style Naruto pics.

Step 1 is always the sketch phase where I draw quick sketches to get a feel for the character in motion. At this point I draw from memory as to not get bogged down in details. As you can see the first pose was a lot different than the final. I always intended to show his frog style moves but with that first pose I didn't think it was dynamic enough. The other poses you can see I played around with the leg and feet placement to get a nice flow.

Step 2 I have the pose I like so now I'll do a quick pass at forms and details. I always do this because I want to keep the movement from the sketch so I never go right into final lines. From this point I can make changes without sacrificing the flow.

Step 3 I go into final line work. I pay attention to line weights and when I put down the lines I don't do it all stiff, I make light quick strokes. For me I like that method better because it allows me to make final lines while also making the pose feel alive. If I had just traced it the pose would feel stiff and rigid.

Step 4 I add flat colors and also change line colors. All artists add flat color first I think but the line color is something I like to do to make it feel more cartoony.

Step 5 is shadows and highlights. I try to pick a light source that adds to the flow of the pose. Now it's finished and I can add a BG if I like or drop shadows.

That's pretty much it, this is how I go about making all my pics. Nothing special I know but there ya go. Drawings were all done in ToonBoom Harmony. Enjoy!

*download for full size.*