Semi-realism is a style of art that aims to combine realistic and stylized representations of a scene or a living thing. Learn how to use computer software to draw a semi-realistic portrait in this article. Although Photoshop CS5 is used in this tutorial’s example, you can probably apply the same concepts to an application that is similar.
Steps To Draw Semi Realistic Portrait
Here are some steps that show How to Draw a Semi-Realistic Portrait.
Semi-realistic Lady
1. Draw a circle for the head
Firstly draw a circle for the head to create a semi realistic portrait.
2. Sketch the draft lines for the face
Draw three horizontal lines: the first at the jawline, the second on the lower 1/5 of the circle, and the third at the top of the head. The distance from the first to the second line should be the same as the distance from the second to the last line.
3. Draw the jaw line and the ears as guided by the sketched lines
As instructed by the sketched lines, draw the jawline and the ears. Just touching the second line is where the ears should be positioned. The chin shouldn’t extend past the final line.
4. Draw the neck by drawing 2 slightly curved lines
Draw two slightly curved lines to represent the neck (curved outwards but just SLIGHTLY).
5. Sketch the basic outline for the eyes, mouth and nose
Now in this step sketch the basic outline for the eyes. After eyes ,Add two more guiding lines for the nose and mouth.
Now draw the essential facial features, including the nose, eyes, and mouth.
Semi-Realistic in Photoshop
1. Open a new document in Photoshop CS5
A4 is available under Preset > International Papers. Decide on 300 pixels per inch for the resolution. Open a reference image in a new window next.
2. Create a new layer called ‘Sketch Lines’
Use the Brush tool (B) to switch the color from black to a bright color with a recommended size of 10 pixels. You should do this in order to distinguish between the line art and the sketch lines. Draw the general form of the person’s body without paying attention to details like the face or clothing patterns.
3. Sketch in details such as the face, include smile lines and the edge of the nose
Include details like fabric wrinkles and clothing buttons.
4. Create a new layer called ‘Line art’
To make it easier for you to locate this layer in the future, change the layer’s color to red. Change the color to black and increase the brush size to 15 pixels by using the shortcut (D). When using a tablet, pick “Pen Pressure” under Window > Brush > Shape Dynamics > control. Draw more precise lines over the top while leaving your drawing lines visible underneath. Be confident since the line art demands stronger lines and the sketch lines will be tougher.
5. Add Skin Tone
Drag the newly created “skin” layer so that it is above the “line art” layer. In this manner, the line art covers up your skin tone. Select an acceptable skin tone and a large brush size (140px–370px is advised). You can do this by selecting Windows > Swatches or by selecting the color picker located at the bottom of the left toolbar. Then, regardless of whether the color is inside or outside of the lines, color all of the exposed flesh. To remove any lines, close up and then go around with an eraser (E)35px.
Wrapping Up
This article shows you step-by-step how to draw a realistic portrait. Before attempting to draw a realistic portrait, I would advise you to acquire a fundamental mastery of shading and drawing. I’m using mechanical pencils (HB, 6B, and 8B), A4 bond paper, and Staedtler pencils.