Subjects / Portrait painting
Best books to learn Portrait painting, in order
The portrait is the hardest subject to fake, so the order is unforgiving. Start with the structure underneath — the anatomy and proportions of the head and features — then the handling of light, form, and edges that turn drawing into painting, then flesh tones and the elusive skill of capturing a likeness. Skip the anatomy and every portrait looks slightly wrong. Bones first, then light, then color, then the person.
Reading paths for portrait painting
Best Books to Learn Portrait Painting (in Order)
Beginner8books66 hrs4 stages
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Frequently asked questions
- How should I approach learning portrait painting?
- The portrait is the hardest subject to fake, so the order is unforgiving. Start with the structure underneath — the anatomy and proportions of the head and features — then the handling of light, form, and edges that turn drawing into painting, then flesh tones and the elusive skill of capturing a likeness. Skip the anatomy and every portrait looks slightly wrong. Bones first, then light, then color, then the person.
- What's a good book to start portrait painting with?
- A strong starting point is Painting the head in oil by John Howard Sanden. The ordered reading paths above show exactly where it fits and what to read next.
- What should I read after portrait painting?
- Once you have the fundamentals, explore closely related subjects like Still life painting, Video game design, The music business and industry.