How to Draw Perspective
Introduction The knowledge of how to draw perspective has in many ways been overshadowed by the abilities of technology at the other end of a mouse. But, for the artist that is creating a piece of art on canvas or sheet of paper a sound knowledge of perspective is important. However, it is not that essential. But if you need to create, or change the perspective of the study you are working on here is how it is done. 
There are a number of different types of perspective. Some are so designed for specific purposes in business and design. The so-called 2-point and 3-point methods of how to draw perspective are the nearest simulation of how we see things. I say simulation because it excludes that fact that we have two eyes with lenses and a brain that computes what is seen by each eye and converts it into to a single 3D image. Below is a list of the most commonly used ‘Types of Perspective’. Before we move on ‘How to draw’ each of the perspective types, you will require a plan, elevation and in some cases a section of the ‘Object’ you wish to draw perspective of. All must be the same scale.
Object Plan Elevation In this example the elevations are comparatively simple so they may not be necessary. Providing you know the dimensions it may be easier just to use a scale. However, it is not recommended on more complex objects, but it is possible to do an accurate perspective without the elevation views. To draw perspective you will require a larger worktop to position the plan, and elevations on. Once these have been setup they must to be taped down. Next you will need a longer straightedge, a scale to match and the trusty pencil. In more complex jobs it may be advisable to use a range of coloured pencils. Then for the axonometric projections a adjustable set-square would be useful.
2-Point Perspective The 2-Point perspective is so called because it has two vanishing points. One on the left referred to and the LVP, and the other on the right is the RVP. Moreover, the horizon, or eye level is usually within the height range of the object. The 2-Point perspective could be caller ‘the mother of perspectives’. Master this and the others will fall into place. Click to see how to do 2-Point Perspectives 3-Point Perspective How to draw perspective with 3 vanishing points is a complex process. But, not that difficult if you know how the third point is determined. The only difference with the 3-Point perspective is the addition of third vanishing point. If the object as seen from above; commonly known as a bird’s eye view, the vanishing point to the vertical lines would be below the object. Conversely, if viewed from below, known as a worm’s eye view the third vanishing point would be above the object. However, there are 2 distinct different types of 3-point perspectives. The more commonly used type is the artistic perspective. Here the vanishing points of the perspective are set-up in such a way as to compliment or emphasize the shape or design of the object. As a result the artistic perspective can be manipulated to make the object or building look more visually pleasing. Then there is the real 3-point perspective, where the vanishing points of the object are calculated and positioned according to the location of the viewpoint. (From where it is viewed from) Furthermore, if the object or building is viewed from a different viewpoint how will its perspective change or what will it look like? The artistic perspective is drawn to made the object look pleasing. Whereas the real perspective asks the question, is it pleasing seen from a particular advantage point? Or, from what advantage point does it look pleasing. Click to see how to do 3-Point Perspectives  1-Point Perspective A 1-Point perspective is primarily used for internal perspectives. For example, an architectural presentation of the internal view of a new auditorium. Another examples could be of a view looking down a street in Manhattan. This is in fact a 3-point perspective, but the projection lines to LVP and RVP become so insignificant that it probably does not warrant the effect. Multiple Point Perspective The dredged multi-point perspective is primarily use for multiple objects or objects that have a number of fascists, shapes or curves and bulges. Click to see how to do Multi Point Perspectives
Axonometric Projections Axonometric projections are used mainly for commercial purposes. There are different versions, but in all they are constructed in much the same way. The primary difference between these compared to the perspective is that the axonometric projections do not have vanishing points. All the ‘lines’ on a common axis are draw parallel. Click to see how to do a Axonometric Projection
Click to see Axonometric illustrations As said earlier to draw perspective in a study is important but not essential. In fact there are some fine example where poor perspective has enhanced the mood of a study. As long as you have the positioning and proportions correct, artistic licence can do the rest. Be aware of perspective but don’t let rule. Different Shapes Besides the above basic types of perspectives, there are those odd & special shapes that you will need to do at sometime. For that purpose I am compiling a list demonstrating how to draw these. Shape such as Spirals, Arches and others. |
