Are You a Slow or Fast Painter? Why Speed Matters When Painting from Life
Quick answer: There is no right or wrong speed for a painter. Many amazing artists paint slowly. But when you paint outdoors from life, speed does matter, because the light is always changing. Most outdoor paintings need to be finished in about 1.5 to 2 hours. The best way to get faster is simple: paint more often, especially from natural light, and start with small, simple paintings (around 11 x 14 inches or smaller).
Is it bad to be a slow painter?
No. Being a slow painter is not wrong. I know many amazing artists who paint more slowly than others. Painters on the slower side often think they are doing something wrong, but that simply isn't true.
If you struggle with this topic, I want to clear up a few things. Speed only becomes important in one specific situation: painting from life, especially outdoors.
Why does speed matter when painting outdoors?
Speed matters outdoors because the light is changing and fleeting. The sun's position moves all the time, and it doesn't wait for you.
"Speed is not necessarily better, but in the context of working from life, you do need to be slightly quicker. The sun's position is changing all of the time and it doesn't wait for you."
Typical outdoor session: about 1.5 to 2 hours per painting.
Large outdoor paintings: may take several days and multiple sessions.
Why do some painters finish faster than others?
Usually, faster painters are simply a little further along in their practice. When I attended the American Academy of Art, we sat together at tables. I remember glancing at another student's painting that was already finished and wondering if I was doing something wrong because mine wasn't done yet.
The truth was, that student was just a little more advanced than me at the time. Over the years, I got faster and faster because I was practicing all the time.
How can I paint faster?
The answer is consistent practice. Time plus work equals improvement and a quicker speed. If you aren't painting regularly, you will struggle in front of the canvas. Ask yourself honestly: am I painting enough? The more, the better.
Painting from life, outdoors or in natural light, is one of the best ways to build speed:
It puts you on a timer. Changing light forces you to work efficiently.
It improves your decisions. The choices you make become more accurate, not just faster.
It works for nearly everyone. Most painters I know sped up by painting from life.
It is difficult in the beginning. But with time and work, I guarantee you will see massive improvement.
What size should beginner painters work at?
Beginners should work small, nothing bigger than about 11 x 14 inches, and avoid complex scenes. A common mistake I see is painters jumping into large, ambitious paintings too soon. Their heart is there, but their skill level is not yet.
"With time and practice, you can get those closer [your heart and skill level] together so your idea can be brought to the canvas more successfully."
If you're a slower painter right now, don't be bothered by it. You may be exactly where you should be in your growth. Keep your paintings small and simple, and practice again and again with natural light, whether outdoors or in the studio.
Key takeaways
There is no right or wrong painting speed.
Outdoors, the changing sun means you usually have 1.5 to 2 hours per painting.
Speed comes from consistent practice: time plus work equals improvement.
Painting from life builds both speed and more accurate decisions.
Beginners should paint small (11 x 14 inches or less) and keep scenes simple.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to paint a plein air painting? Most outdoor paintings take about 1.5 to 2 hours, because the light changes. Larger paintings may take several days and sessions.
Is it okay to be a slow painter? Yes. Many amazing artists paint slowly. Speed only matters more when you are working from life and racing changing light.
What is the best way to become a faster painter? Paint often and consistently, especially from life and natural light. Practice is where speed comes from.
What size canvas should a beginner use? Start small, around 11 x 14 inches or smaller, with simple scenes, until your skill catches up with your vision.