How to get the head’s proportions right

Artwork and question from Sietske, Drawing Academy student

I struggle to get the proportions right from the side view. Can you please give some advice. I especially struggle with the ear placement.

Thank you

Dear Sietske,

Thank you for your drawing.

Every model is different, therefore proportions will differ as well.

However, there are some universal measurements you can do to place an ear correctly:

1. Check the top edge of the ear in relation to the eyebrow line.

2. Check the bottom edge of the ear in relation to the base of the nose.

3. Check the distance from the eyebrow to the ear in relation to the height of the nose.

4. Check the tilt of the line where the ear connects to the head.

5. Check the relationship of the lower jaw and the ear placement.

6. Check how many times the width of an ear fits into its height.

7. Divide the height of the ear into three equal parts and check what parts of the ear those divisions encompass.

You will find more about how to draw an ear here:

https://lifedrawing.academy/drawing-lessons/how-to-draw-ears

There is much more to learn about proportions of the head and placement of the facial features.

To learn how to draw portraits from life, memory and imagination, enroll in the Life Drawing Academy course:

https://lifedrawing.academy/pricing

I hope this helps.

Kind regards,
Vladimir

I’m very impressed with the thorough and quick feedback. It inspired me to make the changes and also try to find my mistakes myself.

Correcting mistakes also improved likeness. I tried to imagine the structure of the skull and muscles underneath the skin.

Thank you
Sietske

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