Quick Guide: How to Use Photo to Sketch in PhotoDirector

Four steps from a photograph to a painted version of it.

Updated Oct. 25, 2026 · 1 min read

Steps

1Import a photo

Use a well-lit face, framed half body or closer. Three samples sit underneath if you want to try it without using your own photo. Click Continue.

The tool is built around a face, so animals, babies, scenery, and low light are the ones it struggles with.

The import screen with Import Photo highlighted and three sample images below

2Pick a style

Realistic keeps the real proportions of the face and paints over them. Set Female or Male to match the person in your photo, then click a style.

Or pick the Artistic tab to redraw the photo as an illustration. It has its own gallery and no gender setting.

The Realistic tab, the Female and Male toggle, and the Oil Painting style highlighted

3Generate

Click Generate. The result replaces the photo in the preview, and the button becomes Re-generate so you can get another take of the same style.