Master proportions: Elevate your drawing game

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your skills, mastering proportions is a key step in creating realistic and dynamic drawings. 

The human figure, animals, objects, or even architectural forms all rely on a balance of accurate measurements and thoughtful relationships between parts. Understanding and applying proportion correctly will make your artwork come to life.

Our Illustrator’s Guidebook Vol.3 greatly inspired this email newsletter, it includes a great chapter on Figure Drawing and much more to enhance your drawing skills. We also took great inspiration from our course Fundamentals of Drawing by Maria Lia Malandrino where you can learn facial anatomy and more! 

Now let’s explore some practical tips and tricks to help you master proportions and elevate your drawing game.

1. Start with Basic Guidelines

The foundation of any drawing begins with guidelines. When drawing the human figure, for instance, start with the “head count” method. The average adult human body can be broken down into approximately 8 head lengths. From here, you can use the head as a unit of measurement to map out the rest of the body’s proportions. For example:

• The chest typically spans two heads wide.
• The knees fall about halfway down the body.
• The fingertips usually align with the middle of the thighs.

Starting with basic landmarks like these ensures that you are staying within realistic proportions while you build your drawing.

2. Observe and Apply the Golden Ratio

In both art and nature, the Golden Ratio (approximately 1.618:1) often appears as a natural aesthetic proportion. While it’s not always applicable to every drawing, it can guide you in creating more harmonious and balanced compositions. 

For example, you can divide a figure or composition in a way that the ratio between different elements feels more naturally pleasing. While this might take time to integrate into your technique, it’s a powerful tool for creating more balanced, dynamic works.

3. Focus on the Relationships Between Parts

Proportions are not just about individual measurements, but how the parts of your subject relate to each other. A common mistake is focusing too much on one part (say, the hands or face) without considering how it fits into the larger structure. 

For instance, the length of the forearm should be in proportion to the upper arm and torso. By paying attention to how each element interconnects, you’ll prevent “disjointed” parts that don’t align properly.

4. Practice Gesture Drawing for Dynamic Poses

While accuracy is important, dynamic drawings with believable movement often involve slightly exaggerated proportions. Gesture drawing can help you build a sense of proportion that feels alive. 

Don’t worry too much about details at first; instead, focus on capturing the rhythm and flow of the figure. Over time, these gestural studies will help you balance the realistic proportions of your subject with dynamic, expressive energy.

5. Know When to Break the Rules

Proportions are a guideline, not a strict rulebook. In many styles of art, particularly caricature, stylization, or fantasy art, breaking traditional proportions can lead to more engaging and creative results. Experiment with altering the size of certain elements (like large eyes or exaggerated limbs) to create emphasis, character, or mood.

Proportions are fundamental to achieving realistic and dynamic drawings, but they are also a tool for creativity. By practicing the tips mentioned above—starting with guidelines, using comparative measurements, and focusing on relationships between parts—you’ll develop a stronger sense of proportion that supports both accuracy and expression. 

Remember, it takes time, so keep practicing and don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles!

For greater depth and insight into the world of proportions and dynamic drawings make sure to check out our Illustrator’s Guidebook Vol.3 and our course Fundamentals of Drawing both by Maria Lia Malandrino! Plus, now is the perfect time to look into our courses because we are offering 75% off a membership PLUS a free membership to give away to a friend! 

Happy drawing!