How to Sketch Realistic People

Using a grid method to define the elements of a drawing will help you learn how to draw real people in real situations without referring to photographs. Starting out with this grid method will build your confidence and aid you in ultimately achieving a natural-looking element to your renderings. Learning to study form and shadow as well as light sources will lead you to perfect your skills.

Things You'll Need

• Paper No. 2 Pencil Photograph of a person Ruler Black marker Kneaded eraser

Instructions

1. Draw a graph (or grid) onto the paper using the black marker and the ruler to measure one-inch squares. Make a copy of the photo or use the original to make that into grids using the pencil and ruler. By using a graph, you will be able to make the shapes the correct size.

2. Number the grid squares by placing a number in the corner of each square. Do the same to the photo or copy so both grids have numbers that coincide.

3. Placea blank sheet of paper over the graph. Start drawing the image shapes onto the paper with a pencil. Use the numbered squares on the paper and in the photo as your guide to drawing the shapes.

4. Shade and highlight the features by studying the original photograph.

5. Finish the drawing by smudging the shadows with your fingertip to soften them. To add more light, use a kneaded eraser to pick up any excess shading from the drawing.

Tips & Warnings

• Heavier pencil lead weight will give darker values. The B family of pencil leads are softer. The higher the number, the softer and darker the lead.