Sketching a seascape can make for a wonderful picture and a relaxing day out whether on your own or with family. The beauty of sketching is that it is such a portable hobby and on a trip to a coastal area, it is very easy to pop a sketching pad and some pencils into a bag.

 

As with any sketching scene, it is worth being aware of your surroundings before you even begin to sketch in earnest. Always, take time to have a look around and plan your composition of the final picture and make time to think about the following four tips:

 

1. Think carefully what your final picture is going to be about? Although you will be sketching initially, always consider what you want to achieve. Do you wish to have people in your picture? If so, observe what they are doing. At the coast people tend to have picnics or play volleyball or football, or they may just be enjoying the sensation of lying on the beach soaking up the sunshine. Whatever they are doing, make some quick sketches and whilst doing that, think where in your final picture these people would be placed.

 

2. Focus on the sea itself. Are the waves crashing against the shoreline or calmly lapping at the sand? Notice the color of the sky, azure blue, clear or grey and cloudy blue. Stormy or rough seas will have seagulls nearer the shore and there may even be some waders nearby which again will make a good quick sketch.

 

3. Think about your view point also, do you wish the view point to be at the front of the picture? Alternatively, would you like to be looking from an angle or even down across the sands? When sketching, capture all these details immediately but always retain a thought regarding the main focal point.

 

4. Although a seascape can sometimes seem sparse with life and activity, especially during winter months, it can also be a wonderful time to go sketching. Surprisingly there will still be a great deal to draw and empty beaches can take on a melancholy atmosphere which makes it a wonderful opportunity for the artist.

 

5. Ideally, when sketching you should capture as many different scenes as possible so that you have a variety of drawings to plan when at home.