How to Sketch a Free-hand Portrait Using a Reference

This is a step-by-step tutorial on how to draw a portrait from a reference photo. This tutorial is specifically a free-hand sketch tutorial; meaning there is no tracing or instruments used in drawing this portrait. However, tracing is certainly permissible- as free hand sketching has its downsides as you may see in these step-by-step instructions.

Supplies

pen
pencil
eraser
sketchbook
a device that will display your reference photo
your reference photo
website or app you will retrieve your reference from
good lighting
comfortable position

Getting Prepared to Draw

Pull your reference photo up on device and retrieve needed materials to draw.

Analyze the References Face and Expression

Note any facial expression of the reference and take into consideration when preparing to draw.

Outline the References Face Shape

Begin outlining the references face and ears.

Outline and Fill in References Hair

Begin outlining the references hair. Note the direction the hair strands are going.

Outline and Fill in References Eyebrows

Begin outlining and filling in references eyebrows. Note their shape and any asymmetry between them.

Draw References Nose

Utilize the shape of the references eyebrows to direct the width of the nose bridge. Slowly draw downward vertically. Assess for the length of the nose and any asymmetry of the nostrils to help guide you draw.

Draw References Eyes and Lips

Utilize the shape of the tip of the nose to guide the width and height of the references lips. The bridge of the nose will help guide the shape and spacing of the references nose.

Assess for Any Asymmetries in Portrait

Note any asymmetries in your portrait; if you are drawing with a pencil, glancing at the reference portrait will help you decipher whether or not you see any distinguishable asymmetries and differences between your portrait and the reference photo. Correct any asymmetries as needed.

Add Finishing Details

Add any blemishes, smile lines, birthmarks, creases of the reference to capture their emotion and likeness.

Evaluate and Admire Portrait

Admire and evaluate your finished portrait. Acknowledge the asymmetries and look to improve on your weaknesses. One of the drawbacks of drawing free handed and with a pen is that you cannot erase- so getting the proportions correct is essential in capturing the likeness of the reference. As you can see in the finished portrait, the jaw is much longer in comparison to the reference. However, it still looks okay! Seek for progression in art, not perfection!