Hand Colouring Images

Joined: 21 Feb 2006 Posts: 60 Location: Texas

I'd like to learn how to hand-color some of my B&W images. (Not using the computer - gasp!) We already do that, and its popular, but with a painters background - I wanted to give hand-coloring a try.

I found a few places on the net that recommend Marshall's starter set. Thing is that I am a painter, I already have nice oils and pencils. Are they the same stuff? And what is the PM Solution? Is it a thinner? I need a tutorial...

Anyway, I also read paper types matter. One said use Kodak Professional P-Max Art RC Paper. Others said use the spray. Others said doesnt matter as long as its matte.

And if anyone has done this before, feel free to share newbie mistakes, tutorials, or images. I need a great resource (that works!)

Thanks!
(*Holly* - *Mike*'s hunny)

Joined: 27 Apr 2005 Posts: 577 Location: Rochester, NY

The Marshall's kit is a good place to start. Pick up a bottle of PM solution if it doesn't come with the kit. I tend to stay away from using hardening fixers with prints that I plan to hand color. You also want to use a paper surface that has good "tooth" whick gives your material something to grab onto. Kodak's P-Max paper was a heavy matte paper with lots of tooth and texture and it is specifically designer for retouching. I am not sure if Kodak even makes it anymore. There's some great info on the web about hand coloring. Make extra prints to practice on. The more time you put into it the better you will get. I hope that helps.