Looking for a personalized gift, holiday card or fun way to create beautiful wall art? This tutorial is the perfect way to achieve all three and more! Y’all know that I LOVE the Procreate app. It’s my “go-to” for all my doodles and illustrations. This how-to will show you how to create a family photo illustration in Procreate, but you can also do this with photos of pets, your home…literally anything! Let’s get started!
When designing, I use an iPad Pro with an Apple Pencil. There are several great, less expensive alternatives to the Apple Pencil as well. I also have a matte screen protector on my iPad which provides a paper-like feel when doodling and lettering.
Once you open Procreate, click the “+” in the top right corner to create a new canvas. I selected the “screen size” canvas for this tutorial. Then, add your photo by clicking the “wrench” icon in the top left corner, select “add,” then, “insert a photo.” You will be able to select the photo from your camera roll.
Once you add your photo, add a layer on top by clicking the the “layers” tab and clicking the “+”. Make sure the new layer is ON TOP of the layer with the photo.
For this project, I used a simple, monoline brush. I will send you the one I used for free- just leave your email below.
The next step is to begin outlining each body part, article of clothing and accessories. To color match skin tones, clothing, etc., long press the area. This will capture that color in your color palette.
You are now ready to trace the image. I started with the head and worked my way down to the feet. Once I finished tracing a body part or article of clothing, I change the shade of my brush to the slightly lighter shade. Then, I used the drag and drop feature to fill the area.
Make sure to include the details from the photo such as buttons, accessories, belts, etc.
I completed one person at a time- making each person a separate layer.
The final step is to “turn off” the layer with the actual photo and add a simple brush stroke background. I can’t wait to see your family photo illustration in Procreate.
I also created one using a photo of our home. This would be a perfect housewarming gift!
Are you new to Procreate and want to learn more about the basics? Check out this guide to Learning the Basics of Procreate.
