I took this reference photo while on an airboat tour of the everglades a few years ago. This was actually my bridal excursion before my wedding and my friends and guests absolutely loved it!
I tried to keep the reeds and grasses a little less detailed to keep the focus on the intricate scales on the gator!
Note: I do not use black paint, but create the darker and gray colors by mixing ultramarine blue, earth tones and alizarin crimson, and toning with titanium white.
Custom hardwood frame by a local veteran, Mike's Woodshed.