Drawing eyes can be one of the most difficult parts of creating a realistic portrait. But with the right guidance and a bit of practice, anyone can become an expert in drawing eyes. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Use a Ruler: It might seem like a no-brainer, but it’s essential to use a ruler to draw straight lines when creating eyes. Straight lines are key to creating realistic eyes, so take the time to use a ruler and get the lines looking perfect. Doing this will save you time in the long run, and it will make your final eyes look much better.
Be Selective with Your Lines and Shading: When you are drawing eyes it is important to be selective with your lines and shading. If your lines are too dark or your shading is too heavy it can be difficult to achieve the effect you are looking for. Take your time and experiment to find the perfect balance of lines and shading to capture the perfect set of eyes.
Start with the Inner Corner of the Eye: Placing the inner corner of the eye correctly is the best way to get the shape and depth of the eye right. Try to draw the inner corner slightly curved and then build your shading around it. This will give the eye a slightly more realistic look, and it will also make it easier to tweak the shape of the eye.
Focus on Eyebrow Shape: Paying attention to eyebrow shape is essential when drawing eyes. A few carefully placed lines and a bit of shading can make all the difference when it comes to creating realistic eyes. Try using a combination of light and dark lines and shading to create the perfect eyebrow shape. Also, be sure to keep your lines thin and the shading subtle – it will help to create a more natural look.
Draw the Lashes: Adding the perfect set of lashes can take your eyes from okay to amazing. Draw each lash separately, starting from the middle and working your way out. Try to draw them in large even strokes and use lighter lines for the weaker lashes. This will help give your eyes a more realistic and dimensional look.
Practice Drawing the Iris: The iris is the central part of the eye and it will be the focal point of your drawing. To create a realistic looking iris, try using a combination of lines and small dabs of shading. Experiment with different shapes and sizes to get the effect you are looking for. Drawing the iris requires a bit of patience and practice, but it will be well worth it when you have a finished eye that looks stunning.
Experiment with Different Colors: Of course, you need to keep in mind the eye color of your subject, but feel free to experiment with different shades and hues when coloring in your eyes. This will help to give your eyes a more interesting and captivating look. Take your time to find the perfect shade and make sure to use a gentle hand for the best results.
Look Around for Inspiration: It can be helpful to look around for inspiration when drawing eyes. Look at portraits, movies, and magazines to get an idea of different eye shapes, sizes, and colors. Taking the time to gather inspiration will help make your work more unique, and it will also help you become a better eye-drawer.
Final Touches: When you are finished drawing the eyes, take some time to go over the details. Make sure that the eyes are symmetrical and that the lines are clean. It’s also important to darken shadows to add depth, and to lighten highlights to enhance the realism. Taking the time to do this will give your eyes a professional and polished look.
Stay Patient and Enjoy the Process: Drawing eyes can be a tedious and frustrating process at times, but staying patient and having fun with your drawings are the keys to success. Keeping at it, and enjoying the process, will help improve your skills and lead to beautiful eye drawings that you can be proud of.
