How do you draw realistic vector portraits from photos or sketches?

1 Choose your reference

The first step to draw a realistic vector portrait is to choose a suitable reference image or sketch. This will help you to define the shape, proportions, and features of the face, as well as the lighting and color scheme. You can use your own photos, or find some online sources that offer high-quality and royalty-free images. Make sure the reference image is clear, sharp, and large enough to see the details. You can also adjust the contrast, brightness, and saturation of the image if needed.

2 Create a base layer

The next step is to create a base layer for your vector portrait. This is the foundation of your drawing, where you will trace the outline and fill the main areas of the face with solid colors. You can use the Pen tool, the Pencil tool, or the Shape tool to draw the paths and shapes on a new layer. You can also use the Image Trace feature to convert the reference image into a vector graphic, and then refine the result with the Direct Selection tool and the Pathfinder panel.

3 Add details and shading

The third step is to add details and shading to your vector portrait, to make it more realistic and expressive. You can use the Eyedropper tool to sample colors from the reference image, or create your own color palette with the Color panel or the Swatches panel. You can also use the Gradient tool, the Mesh tool, or the Blend tool to create smooth transitions and variations of colors. To add details and shading, you can create new layers on top of the base layer, and use the Pen tool, the Pencil tool, or the Brush tool to draw curves, lines, and strokes.

4 Apply highlights and shadows

The fourth step is to apply highlights and shadows to your vector portrait, to create depth and contrast. You can use the same tools and techniques as in the previous step, but with lighter or darker colors. You can also use the Transparency panel or the Appearance panel to change the opacity and blending mode of your layers, to create different effects and styles. To apply highlights and shadows, you can create new layers above or below the base layer, and use the Pen tool, the Pencil tool, or the Brush tool to draw shapes, spots, and glows.

5 Adjust the overall look

The fifth step is to adjust the overall look of your vector portrait, to make it more harmonious and appealing. You can use the Layers panel to organize, lock, hide, or group your layers, and to change their order or visibility. You can also use the Artboards panel to resize, crop, or rotate your canvas, and to export your artwork in different formats. To adjust the overall look of your vector portrait, you can use the Selection tool, the Free Transform tool, or the Align panel to move, scale, or align your elements.

6 Add final touches

The sixth and final step is to add final touches to your vector portrait, to make it more unique and personal. You can use the Effects menu to apply filters, distortions, or stylizations to your layers, such as Gaussian Blur, Drop Shadow, or Glowing Edges. You can also use the Text tool, the Symbol tool, or the Graphic Styles panel to add text, icons, or patterns to your artwork. To add final touches to your vector portrait, you can use the Appearance panel, the Graphic Styles panel, or the Layers panel to edit, duplicate, or delete your effects.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?