Human Face Dimensions

Both are effective but fall short of the ‘real thing’. That being, what are the dimensions of the portrait you are doing?

Every face has their subtle differences. Barring identical twins and the like no two faces are the same. Consequently, it is important to have good reference material so those differences dimensions of the human face can be measured and transposed on to you drawing.

Methods on how to do that will be discusses in the two sections under
Set-up and Live Sittings. However, as a general rule the face dimensions fall within these parameters.

The first thing you need to establish when setting out the face dimensions of your drawing, is to establish the centre line of the face from crown to chin. Thereafter the remaining dimensions are set-up perpendicular to that line as per dimensions shown in the diagram above.

The construction lines will act as a map to the structure and dimensions of the face you are doing. Consequently, it must be accurate. The time spent on doing a good set-up will be well rewarded.

•    Use a ‘softer’ grade of graphite such as a HB but preferable a B to 2B
      when setting out your construction line.

•    Never use 2H or harder grade of graphite. They will leave a residue
     (even after they have been erased) that will later hamper your detail
      work.

•    Never apply excessive pressure that can indent or scare your paper.

•    Be conscious of smudging and only use a dusting brush to remove
      debris.

•    If you need to use a straightedge, tip the pencil to a lower angle and
      roll it as the line is being drawn to prevent flat spots.

•    If need be, use a putty eraser to ‘tone down’ your set-up.

•    As a general rule keep your hands clean and try to avoid direct
      contact with the paper as much as possible.

•    Finally, never use your fingers to dust or blend. It WILL leave fatty
      stains that will be near impossible to remove, which in tern will be
      detrimental to the complete study.

For further methods on how to set-up the proportions of the face have a look at Reference Material, Computer Aids and Set-up.