Drawing human figures in various poses can be challenging, especially for beginners. One of the most effective ways to improve your pose drawing skills is by using reference images. In this blog post, we’ll provide some tips and tricks on how to use pose references effectively.
Why Use Pose References?
Using pose references can help you to achieve more natural and realistic poses in your drawings. It can also help you to understand the structure of the human body and how it moves. Even professional artists use pose references to improve their art, so it’s definitely worth considering if you’re a beginner.
Finding Pose References
There are many different sources for finding pose references. Some options include:
- Online image searches: There are many websites that offer free or paid pose reference images, such as Pinterest, DeviantArt, and Shutterstock.
- Pose reference books: You can find many books that provide pose reference images, such as “Dynamic Anatomy” by Burne Hogarth and “Figure Drawing for All It’s Worth” by Andrew Loomis.
- Taking your own reference photos: You can also take your own photos of yourself or friends/family members in various poses.
When searching for pose references, make sure to choose images that are high quality and provide clear views of the pose you want to draw.
Using Pose References Effectively
Once you’ve found your pose reference, there are a few things to keep in mind to use it effectively:
- Study the reference: Take some time to really study the pose reference. Look at the angles of the body and the placement of the limbs. Try to identify the underlying structure of the body to help you understand how the pose works.
- Use basic shapes: When sketching out the pose, use basic shapes to help you map out the proportions and angles of the body. This will help you to create a more accurate drawing.
- Don’t copy the reference exactly: While it’s important to use the pose reference as a guide, you shouldn’t simply copy it exactly. Instead, try to incorporate your own style and add some personal touches to the drawing.
- Experiment with different angles: Try drawing the pose from different angles to help you understand how the body moves and how the pose changes depending on the viewpoint.
Conclusion
Using pose references can be a valuable tool for improving your pose drawing skills. By finding high-quality references and using them effectively, you can create more natural and realistic drawings. Remember to take the time to study the reference, use basic shapes, and experiment with different angles to get the most out of your pose references.
