Adult Proportions

Learning the proper proportions for the human face is critical to accurately drawing it. Proportion is the comparative relationship among parts relative to size and placement. The examples on this page illustrate how to determine the correct size and placement of each feature. Once you know these basics, you can modify them to achieve a likeness to your subject. Differences in proportion are what make each person unique.

First sketch an oval, and divide it in half horizontally and vertically with light guidelines, as shown to the right. On an adult, the eyes fall on the horizontal center line, usually about one eye-width apart. The nose is located on the vertical center line. Study the diagrams to learn the other proportions and placements for the features.

The cranial mass is divided into thirds to place the ear.

The length of the face is approximately equal to the depth of the head.