Behind the Scenes: My Pencil Sketching Process
Ever wondered how a blank page turns into a realistic portrait? Here is a peek into my grid method and the pencil strokes that bring emotions to life.
The final step of a facial anatomy tutorial, showing how basic shapes and lines can be built up into a realistic, shaded face.
A satisfying video where I mask off the paper to reveal a perfectly drawn pair of eyes underneath.
A close-up time-lapse of me drawing an eye. This is where the soul of the portrait comes from.
A work-in-progress sketch focusing on hands and feet, adorned with traditional Indian jewelry. These details are just as important as the face.
A tutorial on drawing facial features, showing the underlying structure and proportions for the eyes and nose.
Step-by-step guide to drawing eyes, starting with the basic shapes and alignment.
The very first step in my eye drawing tutorial: three simple circles to establish placement and proportion.
A tutorial showing how to add the nose structure in relation to the eyes.
Adding the mouth to the facial grid, completing the basic structure before shading.
About Behind the Scenes: My Drawing Process
I don't just start drawing. Every piece begins with a careful grid construction, mapping out proportions before I touch a single shade. This process ensures the eyes, nose, and smile align perfectly with your photo, so the final portrait isn't just a sketch—it's a recognizable memory.
Drawing realistic portraits isn't about guessing; it's about discipline. My process starts with the grid method. I map out the facial structure with light, precise lines to ensure every proportion—from the distance between the eyes to the bridge of the nose—is spot on. Only after that foundation is set do I move to shading.
I use a combination of graphite and charcoal pencils, layering the tones slowly. This is where the 'magic' happens. Whether I am capturing the intricate design of wedding jewelry or the soft texture of skin, I focus on building depth. My tools are simple—a 200 GSM acid-free paper, a set of high-grade pencils, and a lot of patience.
When you commission a piece, you are not just buying a drawing. You are getting the same attention to detail that you see in these process shots. Once the drawing is complete, I seal it with an archival fixative spray to keep it safe from smudging. It gets rolled carefully in a heavy-duty tube to ensure it reaches you in perfect condition, no matter where you are in India.
Looking for a different kind of sketch?
Search for specific portrait styles or occasions.
More from Custom Portrait Sketches by Shivam Yash
More services by Shivam Yash