The Loomis Method is one of the most popular and effective techniques in the world of portrait drawing. Developed by the renowned American illustrator Andrew Loomis, this method helps beginners and professionals alike create accurate and lifelike human heads from any angle. In this expert guide, we will explore how to use the Loomis Method step by step. Whether you’re sketching digitally or on paper, this guide ensures you understand the basics and advanced principles behind the Loomis approach.
Let’s dive into how the Loomis Method can transform your portrait drawing skills.
What Is the Loomis Method?
The Loomis Method is a structured technique for drawing the human head by breaking it into simple geometric forms. This method starts with a circle, adds guiding lines, and then builds the facial features from the ground up. The technique is based on proportion, symmetry, and visual perspective.
According to Loomis, “Every artist can learn to draw heads if they master the structure first.”
By using this method, you can draw heads that are:
- Proportional
- Symmetrical
- Viewable from any angle
- Adaptable for different face types
Why Use the Loomis Method?
The Loomis Method offers several advantages, especially for beginners:
- Simplifies complex anatomy
- Teaches accurate placement of facial features
- Enhances consistency in drawing faces
- Works for front, side, and angled views
- Ideal for traditional and digital drawing
It is taught in many art schools and practiced by professional illustrators, animators, and comic artists around the globe.
Starting with the Loomis Head: The Foundation
Step 1: Draw a Circle
Begin by drawing a circle. It represents the cranium—the top part of the skull. Don’t worry if your circle isn’t perfect; the purpose is to create a base form.
Tip:
If you’re working digitally, use a shape tool. On paper, trace a coin or lid.
Step 2: Add the Central Guidelines
Now draw two lines across the circle:
- A vertical line to divide the face symmetrically
- A horizontal line that sits slightly below the center to mark the brow line
These lines help place the facial features correctly.
Step 3: Add the Side Plane (The “Cheek Bowl”)
From either the left or right edge of the circle, draw an oval or wedge shape. This indicates the side of the head and adjusts depending on the viewing angle.
Loomis Rule:
This side shape is typically two-thirds the width of the original circle.
Dividing the Face into Thirds
Now that the skull shape is blocked in, divide the face into three equal sections vertically:
- From the top of the head to the brow line
- From the brow to the bottom of the nose
- From the bottom of the nose to the chin
This helps in mapping:
- Hairline
- Eyebrows
- Nose
- Mouth
- Chin
Loomis emphasized using thirds because it matches the real human head anatomy.
Drawing the Jaw and Chin
From the side plane, draw slanting lines down to form the jawline. These lines must be symmetrical.
Connect both sides with a curved chin line. This creates the lower portion of the head.
Now the head’s structure is complete.
Mapping the Facial Features
With the face divided, it’s time to add features:
- Eyes go on the horizontal brow line. The space between eyes is about one eye-width.
- Nose ends at the second division (between brow and chin)
- Mouth sits one-third below the nose and above the chin
- Ears span from the brow line to the bottom of the nose
- Neck is added last, emerging from the sides below the ears
Use simple shapes:
- Circles for eyes
- Triangle for nose
- “M” shape for top lip
- “U” shape for bottom lip
These simplified icons help beginners master placement before detailing.
Drawing Heads from Different Angles
One of the biggest strengths of the Loomis Method is how easily it adapts to angles. Once you’ve mastered the front-facing view, try:
- Side (profile) view
- Three-quarter view
- Looking up
- Looking down
Rotate your guidelines and the side plane to follow the new perspective.
The method stays the same, only the angles and placement shift. With practice, you’ll draw accurate heads from imagination.
Loomis Method vs. Reilly Method (Comparison Table)
| Feature | Loomis Method | Reilly Method | Cost to Learn | Ease of Use | Adaptability |
| Structure | Geometric (circle-based) | Rhythmic gesture-based | Free (books/tutorials) | Beginner-friendly | High (any angle) |
| Learning Curve | Moderate | Steep | Free to Moderate (courses) | Easy with steps | Excellent for poses |
| Use Case | Portraits, Characters | Fine Art, Stylization | Low | Guided and clear | Great for expressions |
| Detail Level | High (realistic) | Medium to Stylized | Low | Strong foundation | Versatile for animation |
| Best For | Beginners to pros | Advanced artists | Free resources available | Perfect for digital | Works in comics, film |
Practice Tips for Success
Here’s how to practice the Loomis Method effectively:
- Sketch every day: Start with 10 heads daily
- Use references: Study real faces to understand variation
- Rotate heads: Practice in different angles and perspectives
- Draw from imagination: Try combining features freely
- Use grid guidelines: Helps improve symmetry
- Try different characters: Male, female, old, young
By making this part of your routine, you’ll build muscle memory fast.
Using the Loomis Method for Stylized Faces
Though originally designed for realistic faces, the Loomis Method is excellent for cartoons, manga, and animation.
Adjust:
- Proportions
- Feature placement
- Jaw shape
Examples:
- Bigger eyes for manga
- Exaggerated expressions for animation
- Flat shapes for comic style
The foundational guide helps maintain structure even when styles vary.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping guidelines – Always draw the initial guides
- Rushing the features – Place them slowly and accurately
- Ignoring proportion – Measure sections as equal thirds
- Avoiding angle practice – Don’t stick to front view only
- Not observing real faces – Reference improves realism
Mastering these basics eliminates most beginner errors.
Advanced Techniques Using the Loomis Method
Once you’re comfortable with the basics, explore these advanced skills:
- Facial expressions: Use eyebrows, eyes, and mouth curvature to show emotion
- Aging the face: Add lines, sagging skin, and wrinkles
- Lighting and shading: Use light direction to model 3D depth
- Hair placement: Start from hairline and map flow direction
- Constructive anatomy: Add neck muscles and shoulders
These skills help push your art from sketches to polished portraits.
Conclusion
Loomis Method is a revolutionary approach to drawing human heads and faces that has stood the test of time in the art world. Developed by legendary illustrator Andrew Loomis, this method simplifies the complex structure of the human head into basic, easy-to-follow steps making it the go-to technique for artists of all levels.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced illustrator, the Loomis Method helps you create proportionally accurate, expressive, and realistic portraits from any angle. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down each step of the method, share expert tips, and show you how to master the art of head construction with confidence.
FAQs
What makes the Loomis Method better than other techniques?
The Loomis Method focuses on simplicity and structure, making it ideal for consistent head construction from any angle.
Can beginners learn the Loomis Method easily?
Yes. It is especially recommended for beginners because it breaks down complex anatomy into manageable steps.
Do I need to draw perfect circles for this method?
No. Rough circles are fine as long as they help define the cranium’s shape. The focus is on proportion, not perfection.
Can I use the Loomis Method for cartoon or anime characters?
Absolutely! Many professionals use it as a base for exaggerated and stylized characters in comics, games, and animation.
How long does it take to master the Loomis Method?
With regular practice (20–30 minutes a day), you can become proficient in a few weeks. Full mastery comes with time and dedication.
Is the Loomis Method useful in digital art?
Yes. The method works equally well in digital mediums like Procreate, Photoshop, or Clip Studio Paint.
