The Ultimate Guide to Learning Anime and Portrait Drawing

Are you a beginner trying to learn how to draw anime or portraits? You're not alone. With an abundance of resources available online, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to start. In this guide, we'll explore the best ways to learn drawing skills, including helpful YouTube tutorials and the importance of practice rather than tracing.

Why Google is Your Best Resource

Google is a treasure trove for those looking to learn how to draw anime or portraits. When you search for terms like 'Drawing Manga' or 'How to draw anime', you'll find a wealth of information, from detailed tutorials to a vast array of reference images. What's amazing is that Google has access to over 11,000 anime images from all eras, and with the active community of artists creating fanart, you have access to an extraordinary amount of visual material.

Here's the thought-provoking part: the key to improving your drawing skills is practice. Keep in mind that the best way to gain mastery is by . Whether you're drawing a portrait or an anime character, continuous practice is the cornerstone of improvement.

While Google searches and reference images are invaluable, it's essential to remember one crucial lesson: do not trace. Tracing is an amateur's shortcut; it doesn't foster your own skill development. Unless you’re a professional looking to save time, stick to drawing from references to enhance your technique. Remember, the goal is to improve your ability to draw, not just to copy.

Useful Tools for Drawing Anime and Portraits

Here are a few specific resources that have proven invaluable to many:

YouTube Tutorials

How to Draw HANDS - EASY SIMPLE BASIC SHAPES IN ANIME MANGA How to Draw Hair: 1 Character 3 Styles [Narrated Tutorial]

These tutorials provide step-by-step instructions and clear guidance. They are particularly useful for beginners as they break down complex concepts into simple, manageable parts.

Channel Recommendations

Two YouTube channels in particular, Mikeymega and Mark Crilley, offer fantastic tutorials that are well worth exploring. These channels not only provide valuable techniques but also inspire and motivate you to continue practicing.

Remember, the journey to becoming a skilled artist, whether in anime or portrait drawing, requires dedication and perseverance. Utilize the resources available to you and keep practicing. Over time, your skills will improve, and you'll find the satisfaction of creating your own unique artworks.

So, embrace the process, enjoy the learning journey, and most importantly, keep drawing!