A value study is a simplified version of an image that shows only light and dark tones. It ignores color, detail, and texture to reveal the underlying structure of light in your composition.
Color can deceive your eye. A bright red and a dark blue might have the same value (lightness/darkness) even though they look completely different in color. Value studies strip away the distraction of color to show you what's really happening with light.
What Value Studies Reveal
Focal Points
Where does your eye go first? The strongest value contrast creates your focal point. If everything has similar values, nothing stands out.
Composition
Do the light and dark shapes create interesting patterns? Strong value structure means strong composition.
Readability
Does your image "read" from across the room? Good value relationships ensure your work makes sense at any distance.
Depth
Do your objects feel three-dimensional? Value is what creates the illusion of form and light on a flat surface.
Choosing Your Value Scale
Value studies can use different numbers of values depending on your goal. The Munsell value scale traditionally uses 10 steps from black to white, but artists often simplify this.
2 Values (Notan)
Just black and white. Forces you to see only the largest shapes of light and dark.
Best for: Composition planning, understanding big shapes
3-5 Values
Adds a few mid-tones between black and white. Creates a simplified but readable image.
Best for: Quick thumbnails, learning value relationships
7-10 Values
Full range from deepest darks to lightest lights with gradual transitions.
Best for: Detailed studies, understanding subtle light
Which to Choose?
Start with 3-5 values for planning. Use 7-10 values when analyzing reference photos or checking finished work.
The Value Study app lets you add or remove values to find the right level of simplification for your needs.
A numbered value scale makes it easy to identify where the deepest darks (shadows), dark mid-tones, middle values, light mid-tones, and lightest lights (highlights) fall in your image. This helps you see if you're using the full range or clustering in one area.
When to Use Value Studies
Before Starting a Painting
Create 2-3 small value thumbnails to test different compositions and lighting. Pick the strongest one before investing hours in the full painting.
During Painting
Take a photo of your work in progress and check it in grayscale. Are the values muddy? Is there enough contrast? This catches problems early.
Analyzing References
Before painting from a photo, study its values. Colors that look different might have the same value, which can make your painting look muddy if you don't catch it.
The app is not a replacement for doing value studies. Creating value studies by hand is how you train your eye and build your skills. The app is a tool for checking your work, analyzing reference photos, and learning faster by seeing what correct values look like. Think of it as a reference tool that supports your practice, not a substitute for it.
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