12 Paintings You'll Have A Hard Time Believing Aren't Photographs

Paintings have been around forever and they are one of the most popular forms of art. Historically, we've used paintings to communicate, express our feelings, and tell our history. In a way, painting hasn't changed much. Portraits are still popular subjects and trying to paint the best you can is the desired outcome. But what happens when the painting is done so well you can't tell if it's actually a painting? 

1. Texting

This painting perfectly captures this generation of young people focused on technology. But how he got the light so realistic with just paint? Truly mind-boggling.

2. Thought

I wonder: if the idea he's thinking about is a good one, will the light bulb light up? Either way, the realism of this painting is simply... unreal. I don't think I can spot one brush stroke!

3. Sandra

Sandra Bullock is America's sweetheart, so there's no question why someone would want to paint her. But for someone to do this good a job truly pays tribute to a wonderful actress.

4. Sleeping Child

A sleeping child is such a peaceful thing, and this artist has captures the innocence perfectly. Just look at the seat belt! It's hard to tell that this is a painting.

5. Deer in the Woods

This painting is simply gorgeous! It looks like the deer is about to take a step into the beautiful woods at any second. The artist even got the light from the setting sun to look real!

6. Up for Air

Water is a tricky thing to paint, but to be able to paint well enough for that water to look real? Now that's talent. Even the water beads on her skin are perfect.

7. Plastic Bag

Everyone has carried a plastic bag at some point, and everyone knows the familiar crinkling. So to capture that so wonderfully in just a painting is remarkable. Add in the Coke cans and this picture is exquisite.

8. Innocence

The innocence of a child is so precious, and is usually hard to capture in a photograph, let alone a painting. But this artist gives this little girl life and makes her so adorable!

9. Wedding Night

A beautiful bride on her wedding day is truly a sight to behold. This artist captures a moment before the wedding, where the bride takes a break to check out the guests.

10. Ponder

Perhaps this man is thinking about a difficult choice, or perhaps he is just trying to decide what he should have for lunch. Either way, it's hard to tell that this is a painting and not a photo of this young man!

11. Legs

Do you think this lady just got home from a date gone bad? A work meeting? Whatever she is doing, this painting gets every fabric down to perfection!

12. Emma Watson

This painting is probably the best I've seen when compared to a real photo. This, of course, is former Harry Potter actress Emma Watson, looking as gorgeous as ever!

Main image via Instagram / @patrick_kramer_paintings

Collage images via 1. Bill Stephens / Earth Prints 2. Pedro Campos 3. Facebook / Nehaal Gonsalves