Starting as an artist requires learning how to draw realistically. One effective method for doing so is through practice and drawing reference pictures.
Beginners often need help withdrawing from reference images. But that can be different.
1. Look at the light
As you draw, be mindful of your light source and its effects on your completed picture. An insufficient light source could obscure your view or not provide sufficient illumination of your subject matter. The best approach is to adjust your lighting scheme before beginning sketching.
· Avoid direct sunlight as an illumination source.
· Use softened or diffused lamps as light sources.
To achieve a more convincing and less intimidating image, use these strategies. They will help you avoid violating any social norms or protocols.
2. Look at the shadows
If you want to know how to draw shadows, take your drawing outdoors into nature and observe how light interacts with plants and trees. Spend time looking at shapes and patterns in leaf and branch formations before using your sketchbook to draw the shadows they cast onto a flat surface.
- Shadows often reach their darkest parts near or beneath an object where no light reaches it.
· This type of shadow is known as an “occlusion shadow.”
- Highlights are areas in a drawing where the light directly hits, creating depth.
· Highlights give life to any drawing!
3. Look at the texture
Texture plays an integral role in an object’s appearance. It may be rough, smooth, soft or hard.
Gaining in-depth knowledge of different textures will enable you to depict them in your drawings accurately. You can even create your surface textures – an exercise which will hone and develop your drawing skills!
Regarding surfaces like fabrics, hair, fur and feathers, it’s also essential to know that all surfaces will tend to follow an obvious direction. It applies when working with fabrics.
4. Look at the shape
Doing so will highlight your subject’s most interesting parts and make it easier to add detail later for an accurate depiction.
Find a reference photo with the same angle as your drawing project. While this may prove challenging initially, the results will make all your hard work worthwhile. Next, experiment with continuous contour drawings – sketch the main shape of your subject before shading in shadows to add dimension and create more comprehensive pictures. Finally, practice making connections between lines for a fuller representation.
5. Look at the form
When drawing, you must consider form. Many find this element difficult, yet essential for creating realistic images. Be mindful of how forms interact and work against one another – this will allow for more realistic drawings with lifelike qualities.
To practice drawing three-dimensional objects with realistic detail, try sketching an object using only a pencil and then using a mirror to observe it. It will make the image seem fresh and give new perspectives on your art. Plus, using a mirror allows you to observe how each shape interacts with its surrounding imagery – an invaluable asset when trying to recreate realistic pictures!
