Figure Drawing Tips & Tricks

Session Format:

Sessions are typically run in four 30-minute posing blocks with a short break in between each block:

• 1st 30-minute posing block:

  • 5x 2 minutes - These short poses are for warmup and gestural drawing. Loosen up and just go for it! Gesture drawing exercise is the key to figure drawing. If you need some help with understanding gestural drawing, here is a great read on the topic - The 11 Steps to Great Gesture Drawing

  • 3x 5 minutes - poses for life sketching, add a bit more of your style and approach with these poses

5-minute break

• 2nd 30-minute posing block:

As the model’s poses get longer, add more rendering and shading

• 1x 10-minute pose

• 1x 15-minute pose

5-minute break

• 3rd 30-minute posing block:

For longer poses, try to develop more detail in the areas where you want to improve, like proportion, rendering & shading. Maybe choose a part of the model’s anatomy, like an arm, leg, or face, to fully render.

• 1x 20-minute pose

10-minute break

• 4th and last posing block:

  • 40-minute long pose

 

Mindset & Approach:

• Embrace the Imperfect: Zoom streams can sometimes have resolution limitations or lag. Don't let perfect clarity be the enemy of good drawing. Focus on capturing the essence.

• Treat it Like an In-Person Session: Maintain the same level of focus and dedication as you would in a physical studio.

• Experiment with Viewing Angles: The model might rotate or change positions. Take advantage of the virtual camera to observe from different angles if the host allows it.

• Focus on Gesture First: Especially for shorter poses, prioritize capturing the energy and flow of the pose before getting bogged down in details.

• Don't Overthink It: The goal is to draw, not to produce a masterpiece every time. Enjoy the process and the opportunity to practice.

• Take Notes: If the instructor provides specific tips or insights, jot them down in a notebook or on your drawing.

• Review Your Work: After the session, take time to look at your drawings, identify areas for improvement, and celebrate your progress.

 

Technical Setup & Environment:

• Stable Internet Connection: This is paramount. A wired connection is always preferred over Wi-Fi for stability. If Wi-Fi is your only option, try to be close to your router.

• Good Lighting: Ensure your drawing surface and yourself (if you plan to show your work) are well-lit. Natural light is ideal, but if unavailable, use a consistent, diffuse light source that avoids harsh shadows.

• Optimal Screen Placement: Position your monitor so you can easily see the model without straining. Consider having a second monitor, one for the model and one for your reference or other tools. If you have a PC, laptop, or tablet with a small screen, it is highly advised that you connect to a larger display. Use the HDMI port on your device and an HDMI cable to connect to an HDMI port on your television for optimal session viewing.

• Adjust Zoom Meeting Settings:

• Speaker View vs. Gallery View: For the session, "Speaker View" is usually best as it prioritizes the model.

• Hide Non-Video Participants: This can declutter your screen.

• Pin the Model: If the host allows, pin the model's video to ensure they remain the primary focus even if others speak.

• Disable Notifications: Silence phone notifications and close unnecessary tabs/applications on your computer to avoid distractions.

• Headphones (Optional but Recommended): This helps focus on the instructor's voice and block out ambient noise, especially if you're in a shared space.

• Webcam: If you want to share your progress or participate in critiques, a decent webcam is helpful. Ensure it's positioned to show your face or your drawing surface clearly.

 

Drawing Setup & Materials:

• Familiar Materials: If you are a beginner at figure drawing, stick with the drawing tools you're most comfortable with. This isn't the time to experiment with new media, as the virtual format already presents its challenges for someone new to figure drawing. If you are a seasoned figure drawing artist, a virtual session is the optimal opportunity to experiment with a new approach, style, and medium.

• Organized Workspace: Have all your drawing materials (pencils, charcoal, paper, erasers, blending tools, etc.) within easy reach.

• Adequate Paper Supply: You'll likely go through more paper than you expect with quick poses.

• Easel or Drawing Board: A stable surface is crucial. An easel allows for better posture and a full view of your work. If using a table, ensure your drawing board is secure.

• Water Bottle/Snacks: Keep hydration and a light snack handy, especially for longer sessions, so you don't have to break your concentration.

 

Engaging with the Session:

• Arrive Early: Log in a few minutes before the session starts to check your audio/video and resolve any technical issues.

• Introduce Yourself (Optional): If it's a smaller group, a brief hello in the chat can be a nice way to connect.

• Mute Your Microphone: Unless you're speaking or asking a question, keep your microphone muted to avoid background noise disrupting others.

• Use the Chat Function: This is a great way to ask questions, share comments, or provide feedback without interrupting the flow of the session.

• Take Breaks: Don't forget to stretch and step away from your screen during designated breaks.

• Participate in Critiques (If Offered): This is a valuable learning opportunity. Be open to feedback on your work and offer constructive criticism to others if asked.

• Focus on the Core Principles: Even in a virtual setting, the fundamentals of figure drawing (gesture, anatomy, light and shadow, proportion) remain key.

 

Rules & Etiquette:

• Respect and Professionalism:

  • Always treat the model with dignity and respect. This session is about art, and the human figure should be appreciated in that context only.

  • Any inappropriate or offensive behavior, comments, or gestures will result in immediate removal from the class.

  • Sessions will begin promptly at the stated time, please try to arrive 5 minutes before the session and be settled in and ready at the stated start time.

• Camera & Microphone Etiquette:

  • Keep Your Camera On: This helps ensure accountability and creates a professional environment.

  • Personal Visibility: Your camera should show only your face or upper body, or show your artwork while working—ensure no unnecessary background activity.

  • Stay Muted: Keep your microphone muted unless you need to ask a question or contribute to the discussion. This prevents background noise from disrupting the class. You may unmute during breaks to join in discussions but remember to mute again once the model begins the next pose.

• Recording & Screenshot Policy:

  • No Recording Allowed: Absolutely no screen recording, screenshots, or photography is allowed during the session for privacy and respect for the model. Recordings and reference photos may be made available after the session at the discretion of the model or the host.

• Model Etiquette:

  • Respect Model Breaks: The model may need breaks between poses, and those should be respected. If you have any questions or feedback, wait until the model is comfortable or the host gives permission.

  • Model Position Requests: If you need a change in position for better angles or lighting adjustments, ask the host to request it from the model. Do not address the model directly.

• Dress Code for Participants:

  • Even though the class is virtual, participants should be dressed appropriately. Casual, comfortable, but non-distracting attire is recommended.

• Pose Timing:

  • Stay on Schedule: Follow the host's timing for poses and avoid asking the model to hold a pose longer than scheduled unless agreed upon by the group.

• Zoom Chat Etiquette:

  • Relevant Discussions Only: Use the Zoom chat for relevant, art-related discussions. Avoid personal or off-topic conversations.

  • Constructive Feedback: If giving feedback on work or poses, be respectful and constructive.

• End of Session Etiquette:

  • Thank the Model and host: It’s customary to express gratitude to the model and the host at the end of the session. Gratuities for the model are appropriate, and the host sincerely appreciates any contributions that you can make to the cause.

  • Post-Class Discussions: If allowed, wait until the end of the session for any informal discussions about the class content, art techniques, or future sessions.

 

By following these tips, artists can create a more effective and enjoyable virtual figure drawing experience on Zoom.