Ian ([info]ianthegecko) wrote in [info]redline_this,
@ 2007-12-29 23:19:00
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Advice on a caracal head
Hi everyone, I'm a n00b when it comes to drawing. One of my first drawings was of my friend Tom's caracal fursona:


I already know that the symmetry sucks, but any and all help will be much appreciated. I still have to add the headfur and more detail in the ears.

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[info]celty
2007-12-30 04:32 pm UTC (link)
I think your main problem is structure. If you want your drawing to be convincing, and therefore appealing, it has to have some sort of dimension to it. My suggestion to you is to start your drawings with basic three dimensional shapes (I apologize if you did this, but I didn't see any evidence of construction lines in the piece above).

As far as heads go, it's pretty common to substitute it for a sphere to start with. This can then be shaped accordingly, and additional features (such as the snout and ears) can be added to it, making sure they are also thought of as three dimensional shapes.


This is by no means finished; for example, the snout is too long and needs to be shortened. However, once you have these guidelines down you can then go on to tweak and refine them (although it benefits you to get it right in the construction stage).

It's also a really good idea to avoid head on shots if you can. Symmetry (or "twinning") is your enemy in a drawing. It's less interesting to look at, as it lacks variety.

But don't be disheartened, everyone has to start somewhere and with practice you'll get better in no time :] Have a look on Google, you'll find a wealth of tutorials floating around for beginners and more advanced artists alike. And good luck!

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[info]ianthegecko
2007-12-30 06:03 pm UTC (link)
Thanks, that helps a lot! =D

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[info]dracothrope
2007-12-30 05:00 pm UTC (link)
Take a look at caracal heads and practice by doing quick sketches of them first. Fill up a page with heads based off of pictures you find.

By doing this, you'll pick up on some of the features that caracals have. By the time you get to your buddy's fursona, you'll better be able to draw things (like the eyes, the shape of the head, the ears -- everything, really) to the correct proportions.

If you're just starting out, keep in mind that it'll take a lot of time to get into the drawing groove -- but don't let that throw you off! Keep practicing by drawing from references. When it comes to bodies (are you going to be drawing in the body?) make sure to use references to get an idea of shape and proportion as well. I'd recommend Pose Maniacs to help you learn to draw bodies.

Good luck! The above redline and advice are also gooders!

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