How to Draw a Scared Face

If you have already studied the human face and learned to draw its features, proportions, and distortions in perspective, it's time to move on to the next step: expressions.

Hello again! Welcome to this article, where we will analyze how the face transforms in order to create a realistic expression of fear.

Physical characteristics of a frightened person

When fear appears, the body undergoes a series of physical changes caused by cortisol, as panic activates all defense mechanisms. Among the most visible characteristics, the eyes open widely, eyebrows raise, and pupils dilate, in order to enhance the perception of danger.

In terms of breathing, the nostrils and mouth open, which ensures good oxygenation to prepare the muscles to flee. Finally, the body's position changes completely: the hands protect vital organs or the face, and the back curves for the same purpose.

Distortion of proportions

When comparing a relaxed face with a face reacting to fear, it's evident that each facial feature drastically changes:

- The eyebrows extend beyond their reference line and create wrinkles on the forehead.
- The eyes open wide, revealing the entire iris.
- The mouth opens completely, occupying the entire space of the chin.
- As a result, the jaw lowers, pulling the chin downwards.
- Muscle tension appears in the neck and shoulders.

Taking the previous elements into account, we can create much stronger expressions by using exaggeration. For example, we could draw very small pupils to convey a level of extreme terror.

Step-by step guide to drawing a scared face

Here is a proportion grid that we have already used in other articles. We will use it to place lines while taking into account the previously mentioned parameters.

Let's start with the eyes, located on the branches of the T-zone, using the midline as reference. Aim to draw them wide open, exposing the iris partially or completely. You can also add a few expression lines on the eyelids to enhance the tension.

Then, let's move on to the nose. Use thin lines to outline it and go down to the lower part of the T-zone. Don't forget to draw the nostrils slightly wider than usual.

Let's move on to the eyebrows, which we will place above the T-zone. Usually, they are located within this area, but it's essential to draw them a bit higher here, just like the wrinkles on the forehead that result from them.

Let's now focus on the mouth. It should normally be located in the lower dark band, but we will use this area as a reference point to place the center of the mouth, and then draw rounded lips around it.

Teeth can be quite visible, so observe the example carefully. In the upper part, only the front teeth up to the canines will be visible. However, in the lower part, the opening of the jaw reveals almost all the teeth. Draw them in a U shape up to where the lips join.

We finish by sketching the rest of the outline. Draw the chin, making sure it extends downward to include the area now taken up by the mouth. Add some wrinkles to enhance the expression, then draw the hair and other elements as you would normally do.

Add volume to the drawing

Erase the remaining grid lines and sketch marks to create a clean drawing. If you wish, you can use an inking tool such as a pen or a quill for sharper lines.

As a general rule, it is recommended to apply a base coat in a neutral shade. This then allows more precise addition of shadows and highlights.

Begin with the facial features by applying layers of similar tones that become progressively darker, achieving subtle transitions. This will give you a base with realistic volume.

Once the main volume definition has been established, move on to the contrast areas. These are darker areas that rarely require gradients and help to clearly define the shapes and features.

Let's move on to the mouth, which is generally darker, because its reddish hues occupy a darker area on the value scale. So do not hesitate to darken this area, including the teeth, because pure white will only appear in certain reflections on the front teeth.

The final step is to add highlights. Add small, bright touches, close to points on the tongue and on the brightest areas of the face to enhance the organic effect. Other areas also require lightening, such as the nose, where both soft and precise shapes will be used.

Here is the result of our drawing. We can see how the lines are adjusted to create the appropriate expression, as well as the use of strong contrasts to enhance the dramatic aspect.

Now it's your turn to create your own version. Follow these steps and get started!

Writer and Illustrator: Bryam