How to Draw Profile Portraits in Pencil
Profile portraits reveal the full silhouette of the face and test your understanding of proportion. This guide covers how to draw profile portraits in pencil with accurate placement of the brow, nose, lips, chin and ear.
1) Profile Proportion
The classic proportion places the ear between brow and nose base. Forehead curves into the nose bridge; lips sit forward of the chin plane. Always verify against your specific reference.
2) Silhouette First
Before internal detail, capture the outer contour. A strong silhouette reads instantly as a likeness even with minimal shading.
3) Step-by-Step Profile Drawing
A) Vertical and horizontal guides
Align brow, nose base and chin on construction lines.
B) Draw the profile outline
Forehead, nose tip, lip protrusion and chin point.
C) Place the ear and eye socket
Ear position anchors side-view proportion.
D) Shade planes away from light
Nose underside, upper lip and neck carry core shadow.
4) Common Mistakes
– Nose too long or lips too flat in profile.
– Ear placed too high or detached from the head.
– Weak silhouette with premature internal detail.
5) Conclusion
Drawing profile portraits in pencil strengthens your overall portrait skills. Combine this with ear and nose tutorials for polished side-view results.