Portrait Painting

The most important step in painting a portrait is starting correctly.  Without a good foundation the rest of the painting will be a struggle.  This drawing is the pastel construction of the portrait "Anna in Green Scarf."

What makes a good start?  
   1. Axis line- This line runs down the middle of the face and defines the tilt of the head.  It also helps the artist show the turn  of the head depending on how much facial mass is showing on either side of the line.

   2. Feature Placement- The features lie perpendicular to the axis line and parallel with each other.  Each person has unique features yet each persons features follow a ratio that is the same no matter your sex or race.  As an example everyones eyes are one eye width apart.  

   3. Value Pattern- The pattern of shadow caused by light falling on the head.  This pattern will differ depending on the direction and intensity of the light.

If you can get the axis line, feature placement, and value pattern down correctly then the rest of the portrait will be easy.