I think hat you have mixed up term "using reference" with "tracing picture".
Using reference is always fine because you build up your visual library like that and you can also use multiple pictures as an inspiration board.
Tracing picture is on the other hand is what is looked down at, especially if you claim it as your own drawing. Only time when tracing is ok is when you are still learning so you can get a feel for proportions.
Srkili in the post "How strict is the "no reference" rule when free drawing?"
2023-01-20 16:44
I think hat you have mixed up term "using reference" with "tracing picture".
Using reference is always fine because you build up your visual library like that and you can also use multiple pictures as an inspiration board.
Tracing picture is on the other hand is what is looked down at, especially if you claim it as your own drawing. Only time when tracing is ok is when you are still learning so you can get a feel for proportions.