[ Wrio/Sampo ] Dedication HD (+ process + PSD) (Patreon)

For this illustration, I went back to the process I experimented from August to October, with some implementations - the differences between this (A) and my usual coloring process (B) are that:

In (B), I use Multiply layers for shadows, a Linear Dodge (Add) layer for highlights, and many additional layers of adjustments to set the colors and atmosphere. Then, I paint over everything, polishing and rendering for hours!

PROS: I prefer this process for complex settings, because I have more control of the outcome - I can have a more precise idea of the overall look and easily correct single elements to perfection the color scheme. Additionally, having the shadows layers separate from the rest can help you focus on the light direction for a more coherent setting.

CONS: it takes significantly longer, and I'm not sure there's a significant enough improvement in quality to justify it. The colors setup part of the process with its endless possibilities of editing the slightest factors can lead to overthinking and HOURS of attempts of "fixing" this and that only to then revert back to the first version. 

In (A), I manually pick the colors for shadows and highlights, smoothen the transitions from shadows to light under the lineart layer and maybe add a single adjustment layer only after.

PROS: it's way faster and achieves nearly the same rendering quality.

CONS: I sometimes feel "insecure" using this process, especially when I'm unsure of the lights and shadows and their colors. I think this process reflects the artists' weaknesses more because it make you work with values and colors position and balance at the same time, so if you don't already master them all, you struggle. 

Below, samples with the different coloring processes!
← (A) on the left column | (B) on the right column →

I'm curious, is there an outcome you like more than the other? 

Back to this Wrio/Sampo piece: I decided to work with process (A) but I've spent a little more time rendering above the lineart because it looked too heavy, almost distracting, so I left it on the external outlines while painting over it elsewhere. I also added more 

Ultimately, I believe each illustration requires more or less attention to certain steps - experimenting with both (and more!) processes made me learn different solutions to overcome different issues.
The "preferable" process is the one you feel more comfortable with! Personally, I like experimenting, attempting more ways and mixing knowledge.

💌 HD + PSD in attachments!