I looked for simple color and value relationship during this early stage. I always remember the characters of each subject matters so that I can paint them more easily with correct starting stage. E.g. here -- Look at the different types of strokes used for rigid building and flowing water.

With proper color and value plan during the early stage, I could progessively have more detailed color and value change in smaller shapes. I started to define some edges

I then slowing search for minor contrast in colors and values. Further defined the edges through enhancement of contrast. I softened some places too. The completed image looks detailed. However, it was not rendered a lot. The characters of subject matters come from understanding of the subject matters (eg. water - soft, figures -- moving / standing, buildings -- rigid...). We learn to imply with our strokes and emphasize them with courage -- through colors, tonal contrast, textures.....

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