So i'm not sure, do most artists manip and then body prep etc and change colors? or do you use the reference to draw some lines for you to fill in a color then define with layers of shade/shine etc?

just go ahead and post, i'm to lazy to make a poll lol

I use a horse image, cut it out, and then change the colours and stuff. I feel like most artists do this, but some will take the stock and completely repaint it

thank you! i usually trace the ref and then fill with one color before adding shading in layers + shine