How to Measure with a Pencil for Accurate Portrait Drawing

When it comes to drawing portraits, accuracy is key. Many art students struggle with measuring proportions correctly, which can lead to inaccurate and unrealistic representations of the subject. In this article, we'll explore the importance of measuring proportions in portrait drawing and provide a step-by-step guide on how to do it using a pencil.

Understanding Proportions

Before you start drawing, it's essential to understand that proportions vary depending on the view angle. To achieve accuracy, you need to measure the main proportion of the model's head - its width-to-height ratio using a pencil or by eye.

Preparing Your Tools

To begin, fix your paper to a drawing board and sharpen your pencil. It's also helpful to have a model or draw yourself looking in a mirror. This will allow you to analyze the head, choose the view angle, and decide on the artwork size and layout.

Measuring Proportions

First, measure the width of the head from one ear to the other. Then, measure the height of the head from the crown to the chin. Compare these two measurements to determine the width-to-height ratio. This will give you a better understanding of the proportions of the head and help you draw it accurately.

Drawing in the Three Quarters View

One of the most challenging aspects of portrait drawing is capturing the subject's likeness while still conveying their character and personality. To achieve this, it's essential to understand how to draw a portrait in the three quarters view.

In 'portrait pro body torrent' (PDF), we'll share with you the step-by-step process of how to draw a head in the three-quarters view. This book is written and illustrated by Vladimir London, internationally published author and founder of Drawing Academy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When drawing portraits, it's easy to fall into common mistakes such as misplaced facial features, incorrect proportions, wrong perspective, and more. To avoid these mistakes, it's essential to understand the constructive drawing principles that govern portrait drawing.

In conclusion, measuring proportions accurately is crucial for realistic portrait drawing. By following these simple steps, you'll be able to draw similar portraits with ease. Remember to always prioritize accuracy over realism, as this will help you achieve a more believable and engaging portrait.

Additional Resources

For further guidance on how to measure with a pencil and draw accurate portraits, check out our article 'How to Measure with a Pencil'(https://www.drawingacademy.org/how-to-measure-with-a-pencil). Additionally, you can purchase our book 'How to Draw a Portrait in the Three Quarters View' available on Amazon.

Portrait pro body torrent