A close up, lots of detail and a striking pose is why I chose the reference photo for this portrait. I did a Gorilla portrait which was cropped tight to fill the paper which creates a really dramatic effect. It can work really well and since I started this portrait I have struggled to put the

pencils down. The striped markings are what make this magnificent animal so iconic. The Amur Tiger is particular is one of my favourite wildlife subjects to paint and draw.