beginners guide to plein air painting

Author: Jenny Aitken
Format: Paperback
Publication date: 18 August 2026
144 pages

The must-have beginner’s guide to painting outdoors in oils, from award-winning artist and trusted teacher, Jenny Aitken.

Through 8 skill-building projects, packed with expert tips and techniques, Jenny will inspire you to explore the immediacy of working en plein air, sharpen your observation skills and boost your practical confidence.

Plein air painting is increasingly popular and in this complete course Jenny covers everything you need to know. The 8 projects are carefully chosen so that you can build up your confidence through practice; each will teach you new techniques, and will gradually develop your skills as you work through the book.

Take the fear out of painting outdoors: with preparation, everything is possible. Jenny covers all the essential considerations, from choosing the right clothing and checking the weather, to planning your supplies.

Discover a range of 8 inspiring projects: choose from delicate flowers and dramatic seascapes to rolling landscapes and billowing clouds.

Improve your painting practice: discover key techniques including simplification, brushwork, perspective and pushing colour so that you can create your own stunning results.

Sharpen up your plein air skills: the immediacy of working en plein air will sharpen your eye, mind and skill. Learn how to tackle the particular challenges of working outdoors, including changing light, moving subjects and more – right down to dealing with the weather.

With clear guidance on everything from selecting the right materials to capturing light and atmosphere, this book is designed to remove the intimidation factor and help artists of all skill levels develop confidence and skill in plein air painting.