The D&D Art Guide: Info Your Artist Actually Needs

Why Clear References Are Crucial for Your D&D Character Portrait

Imagine trying to describe a complex dream to someone – the details can get fuzzy, right? It’s similar when you're trying to convey the image of your character that lives in your head. The more precise and thorough your descriptions and references, the better the artist, can translate your ideas into a stunning visual reality.

Good references prevent misunderstandings, reduce the need for extensive revisions (saving both you and the artist time!), and ultimately lead to a D&D character portrait that you’re absolutely thrilled with. It’s a collaborative process, and your input is the foundation.

The Core Components: What Every Artist Needs to Know

Let's start with the foundational information. These are the non-negotiables that help an artist get a basic grasp of your character right from the get-go.

Character Basics

These might seem obvious, but they're the starting point:

• Name: What's your character called?
• Race: Are they an elf, dwarf, tiefling, human, or something more exotic? Specify any subraces if relevant (e.g., Wood Elf, Mountain Dwarf).
• Class: What do they *do*? Are they a mighty Barbarian, a cunning Rogue, a wise Wizard, or perhaps a devout Cleric?

Physical Appearance: Beyond the Basics

This is where you really start painting a picture with your words. Go beyond just "tall human with brown hair." Think about what makes them unique.

Face & Hair

The face is often where so much of a character's personality shines through! So, let's get into the nitty-gritty to truly capture their unique look.

• Eyes: Think beyond just color. Are they wide and expressive, narrow and shrewd, almond-shaped, round, downturned, or upturned? What color are they, and is there anything special like heterochromia or a unique glint?
• Nose, Lips, and Jawline: Is their nose aquiline, button, broad, or crooked from an old fight? Are their lips full, thin, or do they have a distinct cupid's bow? Describe their jawline – is it sharp and defined, soft, square, or perhaps a bit rounded?
• Overall Facial Structure: Would you say their features are generally sharp and angular, soft and gentle, rugged and weathered, or perhaps classically delicate?
• Distinguishing Marks: Don't forget those little details that tell a story! Freckles (and how dense are they?), moles, beauty spots, laugh lines, or even subtle dimples can add so much character.

Additional Pro-Tip on Using Face References: Many people find it helpful to use photos of actors, models, or even other art as inspiration. You might be thinking, "Okay, I love Chris Hemsworth's determined jawline for my warrior, but I definitely don't want my character to just be Chris Hemsworth." That's perfectly fine, and something I totally get as an artist!

You can absolutely point to specific elements. For example, you could say, "I'm imagining a jawline similar to this photo [reference A], but with eyes shaped more like the ones in this artwork [reference B], and please give them a nose like my Uncle Fred's [if you happen to have a photo, or a good description!]." The more specific you are about what parts you like (and don't like!) from a reference, the better I can piece together your unique vision.

• Hairstyle & Color: Is it long and flowing, short and practical, elaborately braided, or wild and untamed? What's the exact color and texture? Think about how it might behave – is it always perfectly coiffed or perpetually messy from adventuring? (Same concepts for reference images apply here)
• Expressions: What’s their typical resting expression? Are they generally cheerful, stern, pensive, or mischievous? This helps capture their personality.

Body Type & Stature

• Height & Build: Are they towering and muscular, petite and nimble, average and wiry? Use descriptive words like "lithe," "stocky," "imposing," or "delicate."
• Posture: Do they stand tall and proud, slouch a bit, or carry themselves with a nervous energy?

Scars, Tattoos, & Unique Markings

These details tell stories! If your character has scars, describe where they are, how they look (old and faded, or fresh and prominent?), and if there's a story, a brief note can add depth for the artist.

The same goes for tattoos – what are they, where are they placed, and what’s their significance? Any unique racial markings like horns, tails, unusual skin patterns, or glowing eyes? Be specific!

Attire & Gear: Dressing Your Character for Adventure

What your character wears and carries is a huge part of their visual identity. Don’t skimp on these details when preparing for your custom fantasy artwork!

Armor & Clothing Details

• Type of Armor/Clothing: Is it gleaming full plate, practical leather armor, flowing mage robes, or simple traveler's clothes? Be specific about the materials (e.g., "dark, worn leather," "shimmering silk robes," "battle-scarred steel plate").
• Colors & Style: What are the primary and secondary colors? Are there any specific patterns, symbols, or faction insignias on their clothing or armor? What's the overall style – utilitarian, ornate, ragged, elegant?
• Fit & Condition: Is their gear well-maintained, or battered and worn? Does it fit snugly or is it a bit loose and comfortable?

Weapons & Equipment

• Main Weapon(s): A gleaming longsword, a ancient staff, a pair of purple light sabers, a heavy crossbow? Describe its appearance – is it plain and functional, or ornate and magical?
• Shield: If they use one, what’s its shape, material, and does it bear any emblem?
• Other Gear: Spellbook, holy symbol, pouches, potions, thieves' tools, musical instrument? Where do they typically carry these items?

Magical Items & Accessories

Does your character have any enchanted items that are visually distinct? Amulets that glow, rings with special stones, a cloak with an unusual clasp? Don’t forget jewelry, belts, gloves, and headwear. These small details can add a lot of personality to a D&D character portrait.

Bringing Your Character to Life: Personality & Backstory

While artists primarily work with visuals, understanding a bit about your character's personality and history can greatly influence the art's mood and subtleties.

Key Personality Traits & Mannerisms

Is your character brave and boisterous, quiet and observant, cynical and world-weary, or kind and empathetic? Mentioning a few key traits helps the artist capture their essence. Do they have any particular quirks or common gestures?

Brief Backstory Highlights (How it shapes them)

You don’t need to send your entire 20-page backstory (unless your artist asks for it!). But a few key events or aspects of their history that define who they are can be very insightful. For instance, "She lost her eye in a dragon attack, which is why she’s so determined to protect others," adds much more than just "missing an eye."

The Vibe: Pose, Mood, and Atmosphere

What kind of feeling do you want the artwork to evoke?

• Pose: Are they in a dynamic action pose, a thoughtful stance, looking regal and heroic, or maybe a bit mysterious? If you have a specific pose in mind, describe it or find a reference.
• Mood: Do you want the piece to feel epic, somber, cheerful, intense, or serene?
• Atmosphere: Think about lighting or subtle environmental cues. A moody, torch-lit scene? A bright, heroic glow?

Visual References: A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words (But Words Help Too!)

Written descriptions are vital, but visual references can bridge gaps and clarify details much faster. When commissioning fantasy art online, these are invaluable.

Gathering Your Image Trove

Think about creating a small inspiration board (Pinterest is great for this, or just a folder on your computer). Collect images for:

• Face claims (optional): Actors, models, or even other art that captures the facial structure or expression you envision.
• Hairstyles: Real-life photos or drawings of similar hairstyles.
• Armor/Clothing: Examples of similar garments, armor pieces, or historical attire.
• Weapons/Props: Images of weapons or items that are close to what you imagine.
• Color Palettes: If you have specific colors in mind, a palette can be very helpful.
• Poses: Action figures, stock photos, or other art can provide pose inspiration.

Pro-tip: It’s okay if no single image is perfect! You can say, "I like the face shape from image A, the hairstyle from image B, and the armor style from image C."

What Makes a *Good* Reference Image?

Clear, well-lit images are best. For specific items like armor or weapons, try to find images that show the details clearly. For faces, good lighting that shows the features without heavy shadows is ideal.

"Please, Not Like *This*": What to Avoid in References

While "anything helps" can be true to an extent, try to avoid sending images that are:

• Very low resolution or blurry.
  
• Too many clashing references without clear instructions on what to pick from each. Be specific about what you like from each image.

Art Style & Composition: Defining the Final Look

This is about your preferences for the artwork itself.

Communicating Your Preferred Art Style

Most artists have a distinct style, which is likely why you chose them! However, artists can often vary slightly. If you’ve seen a particular piece in their portfolio that you love the style of, mention it! Terms like "realistic," "semi-realistic," "stylized," "painterly," or "comic book style" can help, but pointing to examples is always best.

Specifics: Portrait, Half-Body, Full-Body?

Be clear about the scope of the artwork:

• Portrait/Bust: Typically head and shoulders.
• Half-Body: Usually shows the character from the waist up.
• Full-Body: Shows the entire character from head to toe.

The level of detail and pricing often vary based on this, so ensure you and the artist are on the same page.

Background Ideas (Simple, detailed, or transparent?)

Do you want a simple colored background, a transparent background (great for character sheets!), or a more detailed scenic background? If detailed, provide some ideas or references for the environment.

My Pro-Tips for a Smooth D&D Character Commission Process

As someone who has both commissioned art and creates it, here are a few extra tips I've learned along the way:

Organize Your Info (A Handy Checklist Idea!)

Consider putting all your information into a single document or email. You can even create a simple checklist using the headings from this post! This makes it easy for the artist to refer back to and ensures you don’t forget anything.

Don't Be Afraid to Ask Questions!

If you’re unsure about something, or if the artist asks for clarification, don't hesitate to discuss it. Good communication is a two-way street.

Trust Your Artist (But Communicate Clearly)

You've chosen an artist for their skill and vision. Provide them with great references, and then allow them some creative freedom to bring their expertise to your character. That said, if something during the process (like a sketch update) doesn't feel right, speak up politely and clearly. It's easier to adjust things early on!