Digital Painting Made Simple by Sara Tepes: A Personal Review
Photo Credit: Pelle Waldron
Reading Digital Painting Made Simple by Sara Tepes feels like sitting down with a friend who happens to be ridiculously talented at digital painting and is willing to share all her secrets.
This book is full of personality and charm — exactly what you’d expect from Sara if you’ve ever seen her artwork. Her personal voice shines through in every page, with handwritten notes and little drawings that make the experience feel warm and engaging. It’s not just a technical guide; it’s a peek into the mind of a self-taught artist who understands the struggles of learning digital painting without formal education.
Photo Credit: Pelle Waldron
One of the things I love most about this book is how approachable it is. If you’re a curious digital artist, this is the perfect companion. Sara breaks down everything you need to know, from setting up your digital canvas in Procreate, Photoshop, or Clip Studio Paint to understanding the essential brushes you’ll need.
The book covers everything from the dreaded hands (yes, she tackles those infamous fingers!), to hair, lips, skin tones, and even clothing textures. It’s structured in a way that makes the learning process feel natural — starting with brainstorming and sketching and gradually building up to the finishing touches that make a portrait shine.
Photo Credit: Pelle Waldron
What really sets this book apart is the sheer generosity of information. Sara doesn’t hold back — she shares everything she’s learned over the years, making this a must-have for any self-taught artist who may not have the means to go to art school but still wants to grow. She also includes a downloadable digital package of brushes and color palettes, which is a game-changer if you want to follow along with her techniques. She breaks down complex concepts in a way that feels intuitive, so even if you’re entirely new to digital art, you won’t feel overwhelmed.
Photo Credit: Pelle Waldron
The book’s focus on semi-realistic portraiture makes it particularly valuable for those who want to develop a painterly, atmospheric style. Sara’s techniques for layering colors, refining edges, and adding those final delicate highlights truly make a difference.
Her step-by-step tutorials guide you through the artistic journey, ensuring that you’re not just passively reading but actively improving. The hands-on practice prompts encourage experimentation, giving you the freedom to explore and adapt her methods to your own unique artistic voice.
Beyond technique, Digital Painting Made Simple also provides insight into the creative process itself. Sara touches on topics like finding inspiration, overcoming creative blocks, and developing a workflow that keeps you motivated. These sections make the book feel even more personal — like a mentor offering words of encouragement right when you need them most.
Photo Credit: Pelle Waldron
If you’ve ever admired Sara’s glowing, ethereal portrait style and wished you could achieve the same effect, this book is your roadmap. Her detailed breakdowns of facial features, expressions, and fabric textures provide a well-rounded understanding of digital painting as a whole. The inclusion of adjustment layers, blending modes, and other digital techniques adds another layer of depth to the learning experience.
There’s a reason this book hit #1 in Digital Art on Amazon — it’s an invaluable resource packed with expert advice, beautiful illustrations, and Sara’s signature charm. This is a book that you’ll find yourself coming back to time and time again as you grow as an artist.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your skills, Digital Painting Made Simple is a must-read. Grab your stylus and let Sara guide you into the world of digital portrait painting with ease and fun!
Photo Credit: Pelle Waldron
About Sara Tepes
Sara Tepes is a Virginia-based artist with a love for all things cozy, beautiful, and unapologetically feminine. A longtime digital art enthusiast, she began sharing her work on Instagram at just 15 years old and have been building a dedicated community ever since. Over the years, her artistic journey has evolved from darker, somber themes to vibrant, joyful explorations of beauty — whether found in delicate emotions, the unfamiliar, or the simple comforts of everyday life.
Beyond portraits, Sara’s work now embraces animals, landscapes, and still life, reflecting a personal journey toward balance and self-expression. With a passion for teaching, she loves sharing what she has learned along the way, helping aspiring artists navigate digital painting with confidence. Her debut book, Digital Painting Made Simple, brings that passion full circle, offering beginner-friendly insights drawn from years of self-taught experience.
When she is not creating, you’ll likely find her cooking with a lot of garlic, tending to her raised garden beds, or hanging out with her three beloved cats. Sara’s client list includes Netflix, Adobe, Wacom, the U.S. Mint, and more — proof that following your artistic curiosity can lead to incredible places.
Read our interview with Sara to learn more about her art, creative process, and inspirations.
