How to Draw a Mountain Lake
It’s one thing to draw a lake in an open region, but how can you realistically draw one tucked within the mountains? Lakes are a great feature to include on your fantasy maps because they can be an important natural resource where villages and where trade can spring up. So let’s look into how a lake forms, and then put pen to paper and learn how to draw one in the mountains.
All of the brushes I will be using for this tutorial are available in The Cartographer’s Liner Brush Field Kit for Procreate & Photoshop
How Does a Lake Form?
As water flows downhill, multiple rivers, streams, and surface run-off will come together in a valley. The water will then fill the low area like a tub until it finds a spillway.
Draw the Valley
As you draw mountains on your map, you’ll notice valleys begin to appear. Now, imagine pouring water over the surface and picture how to would flow down the sides of the mountains. Where the water would naturally gather is where you can place a lake.
If you want to learn how to draw mountains on your maps, check out my tutorial by click the button below.
Add the Shoreline
Now imagine that valley filling with water and where the shore could be.
To match the isometric perspective of the mountains, use a more squashed shape when drawing the lake. As you add it into the valley don’t be afraid to allow the mountains to overlap sections of the lake to add visual depth.
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Draw in Rivers
Add some streams that flow into the lake, which only one river flowing out. While there will be several streams and surface run-off flowing into the lake, there should only be one outlet as water will always choose the path of least resistance.
Detail the Shoreline
Draw in some detailing around the shoreline to create depth. Use dots and broken lines to convey the contour of the terrain.
Add Wave Lines
Use thin, broken lines around the shore to give the water a bit of texture. Try to not stress about making your lines perfect and even. It’s best to use a loose hand as if you’re sketching.
You can do all your line art in the same dark color as the rest of your map. But, feel free to experiment and use a lighter color for the waves, especially if the color of the water is dark enough for it to contrast.
More Mapping Tutorials
You’re all done! If you found this tutorial helpful be sure to follow Map Effects on Vero and tag me with the map you create following this tutorial and I may feature your work! Thank you, and I look forward to seeing you map your story!
Happy Mapping!
Josh
