How To Draw Realistic Person
Drawing real people can seem intimidating, but with the right tools and a few simple tips, anyone can capture a person’s likeness. From sketching the basic shape of the body to adding details like hair and clothing, drawing realistic figures can be a creative and rewarding activity. Here are some tips on how to draw a realistic person.
1. Start with a sketch.
The first step in creating a realistic drawing of a person is to sketch the basic shape of the body. Start by drawing a head and neck as the central focus, then sketch out the arms and legs radiating outward. You don’t need to be incredibly precise at this stage; focus on the general outlines of the body, leaving room for adjustments and details later. When sketching the limbs, avoid the temptation to draw each limb out to its full length. Think of the figure as a series of overlapping circles and ovals, with each body part connecting to the next.
2. Add details as you move outward.
Once you have the basic body shape in place, it’s time to add more details. Start by drawing the facial features and hair. This can be a tricky process, as the face is the primary indicator of someone’s identity. Use reference photos for inspiration, and pay attention to subtle traits such as the size and shape of the nose, lips, and eyes. Be sure to keep the features in proportion with each other.
3. Dress your figure up.
For many people, what they wear is an integral part of who they are. Adding clothing to the figure can help make it look more realistic. Draw the clothing in sections, starting with the topmost layer and gradually adding more layers beneath. Remember to pay attention to the figure’s pose; collars, cuffs, and hemlines should all follow the shape of the underlying body shape.
4. Finish with shading and highlights.
Now that you have the basic structure and details in place, it’s time to add the finishing touches. Shading and highlights can help make the figure look more three-dimensional and give it the appearance of being in a real-life setting. Start by adding the lightest highlights first, then layering in darker shades to add depth and contrast. Once you’re finished, you’ll have a realistic-looking figure that’s unique to you.
5. Practice often.
Drawing realistic figures can be difficult at first, but with practice it can become second nature. If you’re having trouble achieving the desired results, don’t be afraid to experiment. Try different pencils, papers, and techniques until you find something that works for you. Be patient and remember that even the best artists had to practice before they became great.
6. Use reference materials.
When it comes to drawing realistic figures, few things are more helpful than reference materials. Having a picture or model close at hand makes it easier to capture subtle details like hair and clothing. When working from photos, be sure to look for one with a clear view of the person and good lighting. For life models, it can be helpful to use a grid to transfer the proportions to the paper.
7. Consider using raster art programs.
For those who are more comfortable working with digital media, there are a number of raster art programs available. For those who want to draw realistic figures but aren’t sure where to start, one of these programs is a great way to learn the basics. Many of the tools built into these programs are designed to replicate techniques used by traditional artists, meaning it won’t take long for you to get up to speed.
8. Apply what you learn.
Once you’ve learned the basics, the next step is to apply them. Start by drawing from life, using a model or a photo as a reference. Once you have the basics down, try drawing from your imagination. Think of how a person might stand, move, or interact with their environment and sketch it out on paper. With enough practice, you’ll soon be able to create realistic figures that capture a person’s likeness and personality.
