Commission guide
How to prepare character art references
A strong reference pack does not have to be beautiful. It has to make decisions visible: who the character is, what details matter, and what feeling the finished piece should hold.
Start with identity
Lead with the clearest image of the character. If there is no existing design, write two or three sentences about personality, role, and the strongest visual idea. That context helps every later detail make sense.
Make the must-keeps obvious
Call out details that cannot drift. These are usually the features that make the character recognizable.
- Hair shape and color
- Skin tone and facial features
- Signature clothing or equipment
- Scars, markings, jewelry, or non-human traits
Separate facts from mood
A model sheet explains what exists. A mood reference explains how the piece should feel. Label them separately so a lighting photo is not mistaken for a costume instruction.
Describe the moment
Instead of only naming a pose, describe the beat: what happened a second before, who the character is looking at, and whether the energy is guarded, playful, exhausted, or explosive.
Share only what you can use
References are a communication tool, not material to copy. Use your own images, official character material, or images you have permission to share, and identify any reference that is mood-only.