When beginning a new drawing it can be very exciting and yet intimidating if the steps to take aren’t clear for a beginner artist. I have created a comfortable, yet evolving routine for my portrait drawing process. In the article below I share behind the scenes on how I begin a new portrait, and what works for me as an evolving artist.
Steps on How I Prepare to Draw a New Portrait
1. Gather several photos of the subject/person
When studying the subject I am going to draw, I like to gather several different angles. I have the main reference photo that I draw from, but I may also reference from a different photo of the person as well. Whether that is a frontal, profile, or ¾ view. I do this simply to ensure the likeness of the person.
There may also be certain features that cannot be seen very well in one picture versus the other. Simply due to lighting, and the angle that is being taken in the photo. It is good to get more than one photo to review and study before drawing.
2. Observe the structure of the face, and details of the facial features
In order to achieve the likeness beyond just gaining multiple photos, study the facial features of the person you are drawing. I like to observe the curvature of the nose, the shape of the eyes, the fullness or thinness of the lips, etc. Its also a way of getting to know your subject, and appreciating their unique beauty. This helps me to gain appreciation for the differences in beauty of the many people in our beautiful world.
3. Draw a few sketches and take notes
This step is like the rough draft phase, and to me is the most important step before starting the final drawing. To get a good idea of the proportions of the person’s face, and other important details, I will draw a few sketches. Take notes, and observe what changes can be made. Sometimes I don’t always get the proportions just right after the 1st sketch. Creating a few sketches helps me to become more comfortable with my subject.
4. Working on the final drawing
I like to take my time with this step to ensure I don’t make too many mistakes. So, this step requires the most relaxation for maximum results.
Other important things I do while creating
While sketching or creating the final portrait, I will play soft instrumental music to create a calm peaceful atmosphere (preferably soft jazz, guitar, or Christian piano music). Sometimes I will watch a drawing tutorial or a running video (running is my favorite sport fyi 😊). Creating a positive atmosphere while I am drawing is very important. I surround myself with things that I love, and this inspires me to create beautiful art.
Materials I use for sketching and the final drawing
The materials I use to do my sketches are the Prismacolor water soluble graphite pencils Light HB, Medium 4B, and Dark 8B, kneaded eraser, stick eraser, and a pencil sharpener.
When working on the final drawing I use the Strathmore 300 or 400 series Bristol smooth surface paper. I truly enjoy using the Faber Castell 9000 pencils. To preserve these pencils, I delay using them until the finale calls for it lol!
So, this is the behind-the-scenes process for creating new art! If you love articles like this please subscribe to learn when I post a new article, art, and/or discounts in the store.
Peace and Blessings,
Krystal