I've been blessed with a relatively large studio space that's attached to my home, lots of space for lots of stuff to accumulate. But amidst all of that stuff there are a handful of things that I truly can't live without in here (I mean, once we remove the obvious paper, pencils, paint kind of necessities). I reckon some of them may surprise you, so let's have a look!

1.

Audible. Okay, I'm addicted. There is literally nothing I'd rather do when I'm focusing on a large pet portrait than listen to the Harry Potter novels on repeat! I used to watch Netflix but I spent too much time looking at the screen and not at my artwork! I also don't have a lot of time to read now-a-days, so this ensures I'm still keeping up with my book count each month!

2.

Two computer monitors. I know, I've become that person. But when it comes to creating a realistic pet portrait sometimes I need to work off of two or even three reference photos at the same time! Having a second monitor makes my life so much easier (think data entry, emailing with reference material to the side, comparing things online). Cumbersome? Yes. Required? Absolutely.

3.

My super bright day light lamp. Like most people, I work a 9-5 job, which leaves the later afternoons and early evenings to get as much artwork done as possible. When it comes into winter it gets so dark so quickly and it's difficult to work under regular house lights. I went to Bunnings and spent around $150 on a long, adjustable lamp and a set of day light bulbs. Possibly the best decision I ever made.

4.

Adobe Suite. Editing photos of my artwork to create prints, editing photos from my clients to create pet portraits, creating beautiful PDF guides and giveaways to my followers – this would all be SO much more difficult to use without Adobe Suite. There's a bit of a learning curve to the programs, but once you get the basics you're good to go!

5.

Coffee. Oh sweet heavens, coffee. I would guess I drink around five cups a day? Seven if I'm having a really tough day. And I know, I know – the caffeine is horrible for you blah blah blah. I need coffee like I need air.

Is there anything in your office or studio that you can't live without? I'd love to know, drop a comment below!