How do you get from photo to canvas?

[Morris Darby]

I would like to say that I use the grid method for initial proportion translation, however, I have an approach different from any I've seen here.

I use rubber bands on my photo and my canvas/board. The very first photo I used to do a portrait from, the client told me to guard it with my life. So, I placed it ( 8x10) on a clipboard and put rubber bands every 2 inches vert. and horiz. I then took larger rubber bands and put them on my canvas the same way, say at 5 inches apart. I then sketch into the squares.

Now, I will say the only time I use a "method" of scale transfer is when the reference is small and the painting is large. I still enjoy the fact that oils stay wet for a long time giving me time to make all the adjustments for the likeness.