I've been trying to emulate the loose impressionism of a Renoir portrait. This was done with Painter 7 using a variety of cloning methods and semi-automatic "stroke selections." I'm trying to make this look as organic and non-computer-generated as possible (while being fully computer generated with a little human intervention.)
Any comments or suggestions on how to improve this?

http://home.pacbell.net/jmnewton/page1.html

John, first it's too big to fit on my browser screen...could you replace it with a smaller version please? If not, okay, as I have downloaded it to get a better look.

Now, after seeing it in its entirety, all I can say is WOW!!! That is absolutely beeeeyooootiful!

How did you do it? I have Painter 7 also, but I can't get brush strokes to look like that! Did you use a clone, or just paint freehand? Please give a few details! Thanks.

Phyllis

John:

Welcome to RetouchPRO. You really know how to make a terrific first impression!

I've uploaded a downsized version of your wonderful painting and attached it to this post, ensuring folks reading this thread two, three years down the road can see your magnificent work. It's just insurance in case you win the lottery or something and the link you posted no longer resolves.

Not being at all familiar with the nuances of Renoir's style, I can't offer feedback from that perspective. But I can say this: It's one of the best examples of Photo-based Art that's been posted in this forum.

If you haven't found the site's member gallery (http://www.retouchpro.com/gallery/showgallery.php?cat=500&thumb=1), by all means post a couple of your favorites there, too.

Again, welcome. Hope to see more of your creations in the future.

~DannyR~

Welcome to Retouch Pro John. Your work with Painter 7 is absolutely wonderful. Thanks for sharing that with us.
DJ

Hey John, glad to have you around. I normally don't comment on works of art because I have the inverse of your talent. :) But that image really looks great to me. I found that by viewing the larger version, I can appreciate the texture much more than when viewing the smaller one. Super job!

Ed

Thanks for the welcome and the gracious feedback. I decided to make a website tutorial on what I did and will share the brushes (this was all done with Painter 7) etc. so I can see what the more talented folks out there can do (this process I'm working on does not require -any- drawing skills; only an eye for what you want.) I'll post the URL later today or tonight.

Regards,
John

I have come a little late to the party, but I had to say how remarkable your technique is. From colour and tone to the size, shape and direction of brushstrokes, you really have shown attention to detail. Truly a talent:)

Looking forward to your tutorial

John, the painting is awesome. I can't wait to see the tutorial.

John,

Very impressive, love the painting.

Earl