Learn to Draw a Human Face (Side View) Step by Step | Face Drawing For Beginners
Drawing a human face can look difficult at first. But if you follow simple steps, it becomes easy and fun. The image above shows a clear step-by-step method to draw a side face (profile view). This method is very useful for beginners, students, and anyone who wants to improve their drawing skills.
In this article, you will learn how to draw a face in a simple way using basic shapes. You can save this guide, print it, and practice again and again.
Step 1: Draw a Circle
Start by drawing a clean circle.
This circle represents the main part of the head (the skull).
- Do not press too hard with your pencil.
- Keep your lines light so you can erase later.
- Try to make the circle as smooth as possible.
Tip: You can use a compass or trace a round object if needed.
This is the base of your drawing. Every face begins with this simple shape.
Step 2: Add Guidelines
Now draw a smaller circle inside the big circle.
This helps you understand the structure of the head.
Next, draw two straight lines:
- One vertical line (from top to bottom)
- One horizontal line (from left to right)
These lines divide the face and help in placing features correctly.
Then, extend a curved shape downward from the circle.
This will form the jaw and chin.
Important: The horizontal line is usually the eye line. The vertical line helps keep the face balanced.
Step 3: Shape the Face and Add the Ear
Now start shaping the face.
- Draw the nose by extending a small curve outward.
- Add the lips just below the nose.
- Shape the chin carefully.
- Next, draw the ear:
- The ear starts from the eye line. It ends near the nose line.
Tip: The ear is often placed in the middle of the head’s side view.
Also, lightly draw a curved line from the ear to the chin. This shows the jaw structure.
Step 4: Refine the Facial Structure
Now improve the outline of the face.
- Make the nose more clear and sharp.
- Adjust the lips to look natural.
- Smooth the chin and jawline.
- Erase extra lines slowly.
Focus: Keep proportions correct. Do not rush this step.
This stage is important because it gives shape to the face.
Step 5: Add Eyes and Details
Now draw the eye on the horizontal line.
- Draw a simple almond shape.
- Add a pupil inside.
- Draw the eyebrow above the eye.
Make sure: The eye is not too big or too small. It looks natural in side view.
Next: Refine the ear shape. Add small details like eyelids and lips.
Tip: Less detail is better for beginners. Keep it simple.
Step 6: Draw Hair and Final Touches
Now draw the hair around the head.
- Follow the shape of the skull.
- Add volume to make hair look natural.
You can choose any hairstyle:
- Short hair
- Long hair
- Curly or straight
After this: Darken important lines. Erase all unnecessary guidelines.
Your drawing is now complete!
Why This Method Works
This step-by-step method is based on basic shapes and proportions.
It helps you:
- Understand face structure
- Improve accuracy
- Avoid common mistakes
- Instead of guessing, you follow a system. This makes drawing easier and faster.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Drawing a Side Face
Many beginners make small mistakes. Here are some to watch:
1. Drawing without guidelines
This leads to wrong proportions.
2. Making the eye too high or low
Always place it on the center line.
3. Incorrect ear position
The ear should align between the eye and nose.
4. Pressing pencil too hard
Light lines are easier to fix.
Practice Tips:
To improve faster, follow these tips:
- Practice daily for 10–15 minutes
- Use a simple pencil (HB or 2B)
- Draw slowly and carefully
- Observe real faces
Best Tip: Repeat the same drawing multiple times. Practice makes perfect.
Benefits of Learning Face Drawing
Learning to draw faces has many advantages:
- Improves creativity
- Builds focus and patience
- Helps in art exams and competitions
- Useful for animation and design
Conclusion
Drawing a human face is not as hard as it looks. With the right steps and regular practice, anyone can learn it.
- Start with a simple circle.
- Follow each step carefully.
- Practice again and again.
Soon, you will be able to draw faces confidently and beautifully.
Practice daily, stay patient, and enjoy drawing!
