Drawing a realistic portrait of singer-songwriter Christina Perri may seem like a daunting task, but with some basic skills and tools, anyone can do it. In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to sketch the basic shapes and features, refine the details, and add shading to create an accurate likeness. Let’s get started!
Materials Needed
To get started on this drawing, you’ll need a few basic supplies:
- Pencils – 2H, HB, 2B, 6B
- Eraser – preferably a kneaded eraser to avoid smudging
- Blending Stump – for smooth blending
- Drawing Paper
Start with Basic Shapes
Begin the drawing by sketching out the basic shapes that make up the head, face, and neck. Use light pressure and a 2H pencil to avoid leaving marks that will be difficult to erase later on. Draw a basic oval for the head, and add lines to indicate where the nose and mouth will be.
Add Details to the Face
Once you have the basic shapes sketched out, start adding the details of the face. Use the reference photo and a ruler to help you understand the measurements and proportions. Sketch in where the eyes, eyebrows, and lips will be, and then go back over them to refine their shapes.
Draw the Hair
Christina Perri is known for her long, dark hair, so it’s important to capture its shape in your drawing. Work on the hair in sections, using an HB pencil to sketch in the basic shapes before refining the strands and adding texture.
Define the Neck and Shoulder
Use light pencil strokes to define the shape of the neck and shoulder, making sure they match the proportions of the head. Keep in mind that the neck is cylindrical, not flat.
Refine the Details of the Face
Now that you have the basic shapes and locations of the facial features sketched out, it’s time to refine them. Use an HB pencil to go over the shapes and lines, adding more details to the eyes, nose, mouth, and ears. Use a kneaded eraser to lighten lines that are too heavy or to erase any mistakes.
Add Shadows and Highlights
Adding shadows and highlights is what will bring your drawing to life. Use a 2B or 6B pencil to darken the areas of the face that are in shadow, and use a blending stump to smooth out the gradations. Then, use an eraser or a white pencil to add the highlights to the portrait.
Work on the Hair
Next, spend some time working on the hair again. Use a kneaded eraser to add highlights where light reflects off of individual strands. Use the sharp edge of your 2B or 6B pencil to add depth to the hair, and use a blending stump to soften the edges.
Define the Clothing, Jewelry, and Background
Finally, define the clothing, jewelry, and background. Use light pencil strokes to indicate the folds and texture of the clothing, and use a light 2H pencil to sketch in the background.
Finish up and Clean Your Drawing
Use a kneaded eraser to clean up any stray marks, and use a ruler to check the proportions and measurements. Add any final touches and then put down your pencils and admire your finished work!
Practice, Practice, Practice
Remember, the more you practice, the better you’ll get. Make sure to keep practicing basic shapes and proportions, and eventually, you will be able to draw any portrait you want.
FAQs
1. What If I Can’t Draw Faces Well?
Drawing facial features accurately is a skill, so if you’re struggling with it, don’t be discouraged. Keep practicing, and be patient with yourself.
2. How Can I Learn to Draw Hair?
Drawing hair can be challenging, but learning to observe its texture and flowing shapes is a good start. Try looking up tutorials online, and practice drawing different types of hair.
3. How Can I Choose the Right Reference Photo?
Choose a photo with good lighting and a clear view of the subject. Use multiple reference photos if necessary, to get the best angles and details.
4. What Should I Do If I Make a Mistake?
Don’t worry if you make mistakes. Use a kneaded eraser to fix them, or if it’s difficult to fix, learn from it and move on.
5. Can I Use a Digital Drawing Tablet?
Yes, you can use a digital drawing tablet. The same principles that apply to traditional drawing techniques also apply to digital drawing. You may need to adjust to the medium and practice using the digital tools to refine your skills.
6. How Can I Improve My Drawing Skills?
Improve your drawing skills by practicing regularly, studying other artists’ work, taking classes, and seeking feedback from others. If you put in the work, you will see improvement over time.