Famous Waterfall Paintings

What They Have in Common

  • Bright, glimmering highlights, usually where the water is breaking and at major points of movement. The highlights seem to be the most important factor in conveying the water’s sense of movement.
  • Thick lights, thin shadows. This helps accentuate the highlights.
  • Dark, rigid surroundings. This acts as a point of contrast for the waterfall and its curves and fluid forms.
  • Areas of still water have a slightly increased color saturation.
  • Weak and tinted colors for the water (grays and weak blues, greens, and purples).
  • Soft and lost edges help convey the water’s transient nature.

Want More Reference Photos?

Get access to my personal Reference Photo Library. Over 2,500 for you to paint from, and counting.

Want to Improve Your Paintings?

Get started here with this free email course: 7 Days to Better Paintings. You'll receive a bite-sized lesson to your inbox each day for 7 days.

Back to gallery page >