Simple Techniques for Better Portraits
Alisha Dall'Osto
Class Preview
0:52
- In-depth Instruction; over 147 mins
- On-demand video access anytime
- Bonus downloadable PDF resources
- Access to class Q&A
Framing & Composition
22:12
Meet artist Alisha Dall'Osto as she previews the techniques you'll learn to easily capture the likeness of your subjects. Learn how to take dynamic reference photos that include a wide range of values and compelling facial expressions. Plus, practice sketching quick thumbnails to determine the best composition.
Mass, Proportion & Features
27:40
Understanding the shape and structure of the head is essential to achieving a lifelike portrait. Discover general rules of proportion for placing the eyes, nose, ears and mouth. In addition, Alisha shows you how to start rendering these features using simple geometric shapes.
The Gesture
15:16
Apply the rules of proportion from Lesson 2 to create loose, flowing gesture drawings. With Alisha's guidance, gain confidence quickly sketching big, broad shapes that capture the pose and energy of your subject. Then, practice marking in facial features and basic shadow shapes.
Block In, Part One
22:53
Once you've finished your gesture drawing, start refining your work. Discover how to compare your drawing to the photo by creating reference points and precisely measuring the distance between features. You'll also learn how to block in shadow shapes across the face to build the illusion of volume.
Block In, Part Two
18:26
Continue to fine-tune your portrait, making another round of precise adjustments to the entire face. Round out and soften angled contour lines, then concentrate on marking the subtle value changes found within the main shadow shapes. Plus, get tips on blocking in the highlights.
Form & Cast Shadows
25:50
Create dimension in your portrait by building up light and shadows. Get comfortable applying a wide range of values with your pencils by making a value scale. Then, start shading in your work using smooth and even line work to achieve seamless transitions between highlights and shadows.
Finishing the Portrait
14:43
Put the final touches on your portrait. Alisha offers detailed instruction on how to use value, clarity and detail to create focal points within your work and guide the viewer's eyes through the drawing. Plus, get valuable tips on knowing when your drawing is finished.
Capture likenesses with confidence as you learn portrait drawing basics alongside artist and educator Alisha Dall’Osto. Set yourself up for success as Alisha guides you through taking dynamic reference photos and selecting the best one. Next, build your understanding of the structure of the head, and learn to place facial features correctly with general rules for proportion. With proportion covered, you’ll create loose gesture drawings that capture the pose and energy of your subject. Mark in facial features and refine their positioning with measurements. Then, fine-tune your work and build up shadows and highlights to bring your image to life. Plus, pick up tips for finishing your drawing and knowing when it’s complete.
Alisha Dall'Osto
Alisha Dall'Osto has been a studio artist and art instructor for more than 10 years, and her work has been exhibited and sold in galleries across the country. In addition to creating art, Alisha teaches through art organizations, museums and public schools. She recently completed two years of full-time study in the Expressive Drawing and Painting Atelier at the Gage Academy of Art under the mentorship of artist Mark Kang-O'Higgins.
Bonus materials available after purchase