Outline and proportions

 

After choosing a model, you can now do the outlines of your portrait. Use the light outline technique to create the guidelines. The ruler will come in handy with the measurements to make sure the proportions of the face is correct. The eyes are usually the key point of the portrait. You can either do this freehand or by using the grid method, however, you have to have a lot of practice before going freehand.

 

The Devil is in the details

 

If you can’t fill out the details from top to bottom, it is best to use a spare sheet of paper or tissue paper under your hand to act as a shield and minimize smudging. After filling out the features of the face, add as many details as you can. Don’t rush making it detailed, because those small details will be the ones to make it stand out from the work of others. You can even use a mechanical pencil to add details to the eyes and hair. Make sure that there is a balanced flow of darks, mid tones and lights. Double-check the proportions of your drawing against the model by looking at it upside-down or in the mirror.

 

Patience, practice and enjoy

 

Do not expect your portraits to become perfect or realistic right away. It takes great mastery and skill before you can draw freehand realistic and living portraits. So you really need to have lots of patience to practice frequently. Try to develop your own drawing style. And most importantly, don’t forget to enjoy what you are doing!