Snakes are reptiles feared and respected by many. Their unique bodies and features make them an interesting subject for artists. In this tutorial, we will show you how to draw a realistic snake head step by step. Follow the instructions carefully, and you will surely end up with a great-looking drawing.
Step 1: Gather your Materials
Before you start your drawing, collect all the essential tools and materials you need. You will need pencils (2B-6B), paper, an eraser, and a sharpener.
Step 2: Observe the Snake’s Head
Look at images of snakes’ heads and their unique features. Observe the various shapes found in the snake’s head, including the nose, eyes, mouth, and head shape. It’s essential to understand these shapes so you can draw them accurately.
Step 3: Draw Basic Shapes
Use a light pencil to create the basic shapes of the snake head, including the skull shape and the guide shapes for the mouth and eyes. Draw lightly so it will be easier to make adjustments later.
Step 4: Add Eye Sockets
Draw the eyes using the shape of almonds, and place them in the eye sockets. Add details to the eyes by drawing the iris, pupil, and eyelid.
Step 5: Add in Nostrils
Add the nostrils just beneath the eyes to make the snake head more realistic. Make each nostril a small comma shape.
Step 6: Add Lips and Tongue
Draw the snake’s lower and upper lips using curvy lines. Draw the tongue by creating a curved line with a triangle shape at the end.
Step 7: Draw the Scales
Sketch the scales on the snake’s head using curved lines. Make the lines parallel and gradually get closer to each other for a more realistic effect.
Step 8: Add Detail to the Scales
To make the scales stand out, add some detailing to the edges using short curvy lines. This will give them a realistic, three-dimensional appearance.
Step 9: Shade the Drawing
Use pencils with different levels of darkness to shade the drawing. Shade light areas with a soft pencil and darker areas with a hard pencil. Be sure to shade around the eyes and nostrils to make them pop out.
Step 10: Finishing Touches
Use an eraser to lighten some of the shading and add highlights to the snake’s scales. Add details to the tongue and lips as well.
FAQs:
Q1: Can I draw a snake head without looking at a reference?
It’s best to refer to images or real-life models while drawing, but you can use your imagination as well. Just remember to keep the shapes and features mentioned in step 2 in mind when drawing.
Q2: How many scales should I draw?
Draw as many scales as you think are necessary for the size and detail you want in your drawing. You can also add more or less detail if you want to make it look more natural.
Q3: What if I make a mistake?
Don’t worry too much about making mistakes; they happen to everyone. Use an eraser to correct mistakes and try again. Remember that practice makes perfect.
Q4: Can I draw a snake from a different angle?
Yes, you can draw the snake from various angles. Just make sure to adjust the shapes and features accordingly.
Q5: Can I use paint or markers instead of pencils?
You can use any medium you want, but it may change the outcome and look of the drawing. Pencils are ideal for beginners because they are easier to control and do not smudge as much as other mediums.
Q6: How can I make my snake head more realistic?
Make sure to observe the real-life characteristics of snakes and their heads. Study different variations in their scales, eye shape, nostrils, and mouth. Use darker shading on the underside of the snake head to give it more depth and dimension.
Conclusion
Drawing a realistic snake head requires patience, attention to detail, and practice. Follow the steps above, and don’t be discouraged if it doesn’t turn out perfectly on the first attempt. Remember that drawing takes time and practice, so keep practicing, and your snake head drawing skills will improve over time.