Character sketch how to#

You could even create your own reference images by taking photographs yourself.Įspecially when starting out, learning from the work and experience of past creators is how we can get inspiration and ultimately grow as artists. Take all of these images, and create your own interpretation of it. Instead of using one single reference image to practice your skills or inspire your character drawing, compile a bunch of different images together that give you a rounded out view of what you are trying to draw, and what story you are trying to tell. Find your own unique take on the picture, and let yourself adjust any elements as needed to make your drawing the best it can be.Ī great exercise you can also try, is switching up your references as you create your piece. You don’t have to follow them exactly, put yourself into a box or restrict your artistic eye just because of what the painter or comic artist did in the image you’re using. When you draw characters using a reference, it’s important to remember that you are simply using this tool as a guide to help you in discovering your own voice. But really, every artist does it – and every artist should do it!īut this doesn’t mean that when you use a reference, you copy it stroke for stroke. So as you begin your journey to learning character design, make sure to take some time to study other successful work and artists out there, and try to find something that inspires you.Īnd while this is an extremely normal, and important part of the artistic process, there seems to be a certain stigma around artists using tools like reference images for their work. Not only does this help inspire you, teach you what looks good and shows you what doesn’t work – but it also allows you to see how you can add to these ideas, and use your own unique perspective to deviate from the norm. When it comes to any kind of artistic craft, the best way to learn is by looking what has already been done. Use Other Character Drawings As References You can add other columns that might help you understand your character even better before you get drawing, but here’s a simple example of an exercise you could start with: This step in character design helps you understand who you are drawing, and allows you to take these elements and personality traits and make sure that they all work in tandem to create a well-rounded out character. It’s best to not force symbolism when it just doesn’t suit the drawing – it can actually take away from the realness of your character, and come off as desperate.Īn easy way to start this process is to make a list of adjectives, features and personality traits before you start your character designs – this will help you know your character down to the last detail, and help you decide what you want it to look like. But while this tip can take your creative drawing to the next level, it’s also equally important not to overdo it. These details are what can really take your drawing from good to great. When you go to draw characters, try using symbolic elements, colors, and shapes to build a story within the characters themselves. Sometimes small, hidden visual details of your drawing can add a whole new layer to your story, and really add complexity to your character that audiences love. When doing this, the small details can really make all the difference. That way, your character fits into its own world and its own personality. Writers know everything about their character and, as the artist designing them, you should too!īefore you start your character drawing, try to focus on building a design that reflects your character’s personality, backstory, and current situation.

Character sketch how to#

If you’re a creator who’s interested in getting started with illustrations and learning how to draw characters that fit your vision, we’ve rounded up 10 of the biggest, best drawing tips to help inspire you, starting with: 10. After all, great characters are what make great stories.Ĭharacters are the boats that carry us through the wavy oceans on The Titanic, that swing us through the skyscrapers of Spiderman, and they bridge the gap between our lives and a completely new world that we will never get to experience in person. Learning how to draw characters that go with the voices in your narrative is definitely not an easy job, but it is one of the most important ones. Sketching out your idea on paper is a crucial part of turning a simple concept into a real, tangible end product. Character drawing is one of the first steps in bringing your character to life.