Just a bit of practice with my favorite fruit. If I could I would always draw or paint from life. Nothing else compares. Unfortunately, that isn't always possible. Wildlife like birds or deer don't sit still. It's too awkward of a situation to ask strangers or even someone I know to pose for me. I can paint a landscape on location, but that creates a whole list of challenges to overcome. For my current situation, photo references (preferably photos that I take) are very useful in providing me with all sorts of opportunities. However, it isn't difficult to take something simple as a favorite item like a piece of fruit to practice from life.
