Human Facial Proporpotions
While it may not be necessary to have a full understanding and knowledge of facial anatomy, it is key that an understanding of the basic structure, relative proportions, and contours of a human skull and face are in place. There are numerous models that can be used to gain a better understanding of facial structure and how the form causes shadows and result in highlights based on light source positioning.
Useful references:
- 3D Model of Head and Face
- Basic Facial Proportions – Ethan Nguyen
In the figure above left, symmetrical representation of a generalised adult facial structure are presented. In this view the person would be looking directly at the camera with no tilt or turn of face. Obviously, everyone has unique feature positioning, bone, and muscle structures. Age also has a bearing as relative proportions change as we grow from child to teenager, to adult.
In the figure above, the side view fits into a box or square. Note the feature positions relative to each other.
Portraits look more dynamic when not viewed directly head on. As a result of tilt and turn, a general guide as discuss above may assist, but without observation, and adjustment of relative feature sizes, shapes and positions we will not achieve likeness.
