A reference photo is a great tool to use when creating small landscapes in colored pencil and marker. Here I demonstrate using a photo displayed on my tablet. To get started, use a photo that only has a few elements. Use your own photo, a magazine photo, or internet reference, and keep it simple, with sky, clouds and a hill or two.
Learn the basics without getting overwhelmed. Three elements: sky, clouds and field. Lets try this 3x5"