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Writer's picture은사시 Arisu Chris

Creating an anime-style portrait illustration

Creating an anime-style portrait involves understanding the distinctive features of anime characters and practicing the techniques commonly used in anime art.


anime-style woman face drawing
How to create an anime-style portrait illustration

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you draw an anime-style portrait:


1. Gather References:


Study anime and manga artwork to understand the characteristic features such as large expressive eyes, small noses, and simplified mouth shapes.


Look for references of the specific anime style you want to emulate, as styles can vary between different series and artists.


2. Start with Basic Shapes:


Begin with a rough circle for the head. Add guidelines to indicate the placement of the eyes, nose, and mouth. These guidelines will help you maintain proportion.


3. Draw the Eyes:


Anime eyes are often large and expressive. Draw large oval shapes for the eyes. Add highlights and pupils to make them lively.


Experiment with different eye shapes and sizes to convey various emotions. For example, rounder eyes can indicate innocence, while sharper eyes can convey determination.


4. Add the Nose and Mouth:


Anime noses are usually small and simple. A small curved line or a dot is often sufficient.


For the mouth, draw a small, simplified shape. Anime mouths are often drawn as a curve or a series of curves.


5. Define the Face and Hair:


Refine the shape of the face, keeping in mind the overall proportions. Anime faces are often soft and youthful.


Anime hairstyles can be elaborate or simple. Experiment with different styles, such as long and flowing, short and spiky, or braided hair.


6. Add Details:


Add eyebrows above the eyes. Anime eyebrows are often thin and expressive.


Define the chin and jawline, keeping the lines soft and curved for a more youthful appearance.


Add additional details such as earrings, hair accessories, or scars if your character has them.


7. Coloring (Optional):


If you’re working digitally, you can add color to your portrait. Anime characters often have vibrant hair and eye colors.


Experiment with shading and highlights to add depth to your artwork. Cell shading is a common technique used in anime art.


8. Practice Expressions:


Practice drawing different facial expressions. Anime characters convey a wide range of emotions through their facial features.


Pay attention to how the eyes and mouth change with different expressions.


9. Practice Consistently:


Like any art style, mastering anime art takes practice. Draw regularly, experiment with different characters and poses, and learn from both successes and mistakes.


10. Seek Feedback:


Share your work with others and seek constructive feedback. Online art communities and social media platforms can be great places to get feedback from fellow artists.



Remember, while it's helpful to learn from existing anime styles, don't be afraid to add your unique touches and develop your personal anime-inspired art style.


Practice and experimentation will help you refine your skills and create captivating anime-style portraits.



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Next Month's Challenge is how to sketch and paint Anime-style portrait illustrations. you can follow our Patreon and watch my YouTube videos. Also as a member, you will receive many goodies of member benefits every week.

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