Since I have a very specific structure in mind, I start building everything in 3D. This helps me figure out the placement and sizes of things and lets me try out different camera angles and lighting scenarios. I also add placeholder figures for the characters.

I pose some pre-rigged base characters for the statues and model some props, all very rough since I know I will solve the details in the painting stage.

Once I have decided on my composition and lighting I render it out and start the painting process.

As you can see my final render is pertty rough, with placeholder mannequins and no colors, which allows me to be more loose and flexible in the painting stage.