The importance of reference photos

I thought I would share with you some of the references I have gathered for my Mustang's weathering. References are important (if you believe certain competition judging rules then they are 25%-of-the-result important... ahem) as they give you a basis to work from. In my view you don't need to slavishly copy them, but they show you an "average" pattern of how stains and grime and dirt tended to accumulate on the particular vehicle you are modelling. This is your starting point for your own artistry, the basis for your own version of simulating wear and tear.

Weathering is, to me, the most fun part of a build. It's where your otherwise factory-fresh machine develops a personality, an individuality. It's where it goes from being a toy to being a miniature representation of something that has been out in the big bad world.

I really don't get totally replicating a single photo. Where is the fun in that? I know some modellers find that satisfying, but I like a little magic in my weathering, I like being a little bit nervous that I don't know exactly where it's going to end up. That randomness is liberating, man. Water, salt, paint, random chipping - this is the interplay that mimics the real interplay of real weather on the real machines.

So here are my Mustang references, which I am using to make fairly accurate representations of fluid leaks, exhaust stains, faded paint, etc. I've not kept records of the exact websites I found each of these on, but if anyone claims ownership please just let me know and I can credit you.

Great exhaust staining reference.

This is oil rather than exhaust staining, but it's a great shot.

I used this reference when I was working on the wing gun bays.

Pretty subtle exhaust here, but great for worn paint on the wing roots.

I like the mottled metal finish here.

Again, mottled metal effects.

A wonderful exhaust weathering reference.

Another good exhaust pic.

I considered muddy wheels for a while based on this shot.

Random splatters and stains.

Sun-baked and dirty. Just how I like my Mustangs.

Mottled olive drab paint on the anti-glare section.

I remember modelling before the internet, and scouring through reference books for that perfect rare photo that clearly showed a piece of landing gear, or a hatch, or whatever. It was part of the fun, but by god the interwebz makes this a whole lot easier!

Cheers,

Dave