This is my favorite subject and favorite painting condition; figures in bright outdoor sunlight. I quickly assess the direction of my light source, my darkest dark, my lightest light, my most intense color and my grayest color. I draw a line down the middle of my palette; a great tool for staying in control of value! Remember, the light is moving quickly. With these observations, I begin by massing my shadow area first with one tone, usually a neutral color.