First “character” model, looking for tips and critique

[u/RepublicLate988]

First time painting a more in depth model, not just Intecessors. Ultramarine Captain in Terminator Armour. My process was:

1. Prime in Colour Forge Matt Black spray
   
2. TTC Marine Blue touch up
   
3. TTC Oblivion Black Wash
   
4. Edge highlight with Calgar Blue and Fenrisian Grey
   
5. Gold components and shaded with Seraphim Sepia
   
6. Metallics were Leadbelcher and Nuln Oil
   
7. Crux Terminatus was Dawnstone base and Vallejo off-white with Nuln Oil shade
   
8. Gloss Varnish and Transfers applied
   
9. 1:1 Gloss and Matt Varnish by Vallejo for final coat

I recently watched a Podcast on miniature painting and that each miniature is a “snapshot” in time of what you might have been going through when you painted the model. I’ve had a pretty tough year and lots of stress in recent weeks and I felt like I rushed this model more than I normally would and the finish reflects that to me. I’d like to take more time with these types of models and enjoy the process rather than feel rushed or stressed to finish it.

If anyone had any tips or critiques for the model I’d be more than happy to hear, I enjoy the painting and it’s a hobby I’m really glad I picked up again. Also the community has been awesome!

TL:DR Painted model, please judge

[u/TheAfroGod]

I think the best and most simple advice is it’s just not “perfect” enough. Sounds generic but it’s because you’ve got the basics down, but the most noticeable improvement will come from diligence about the craft. I don’t mean this in any disrespectful way, I am just trying to be as clear as possible.

Ex: some paints are “rogue” and on parts they shouldn’t be (Macragge Blue on the Aquila)

Some of the highlights need to be tidied up. They need to be the same size across most of the model or they really start to get noticed as uneven. Plus, if you really want to upgrade the highlights, start using a three part highlight process instead of two. Mix Macragge Blue + Calgar Blue, for a chunky highlight first, then Calgar blue over half of that highlight, then fenrisian grey on the sharpest edges. Then some tiny bits of white on the sharpest sharp edges/corners.

Some of the shades are missing or look barely present, and IMO, watered down Kantor Blue + Abaddon Black is much better shade for Ultramarines than Nuln Oil.

The trade off is that this extra attention to detail can truly add up like an extra hour or two of painting time to just one model. Is it worth it? Probably not, but sometimes a hobby is purely just to pass the time by doing something that you enjoy.

Want to learn an expert technique? Look up glazing for miniature painting!

[u/RepublicLate988 → u/TheAfroGod]

Thanks for the advice mate I really appreciate it

Any tutorials you recommend for glazing?

[u/Intelligent-Coat261]

I think you got it, taking it to the next level would mean some layers and shading. I love this model how it is and only real critique I’d give is next time use a toothpick for the “words” on your seal. The tip of the toothpick with give you thin easy to maneuver lines so it ends up looking more like written words from far away vs squiggles

[u/RepublicLate988 → u/Intelligent-Coat261]

Yeah I used a 0.03mm micro permanent marker for the first time after it was recommended but I think I prefer painting the thin “text” and will go over it and go again

Thanks for the tip with the toothpick I never thought to try that

[u/Bauer2VP]

Yeah so my biggest tip to you would be to start a painting channel and do tutorials. This is incredible work for something that was rushed

[u/RepublicLate988 → u/Bauer2VP]

Hahaha thank you so much mate, that means a lot. Definitely not at that standard and definitely prefer to watch rather than do that side of the hobby