Connect gesture to two body masses
Begin with a line of action, then place the ribcage and pelvis as simple volumes along it. Show their tilt with shoulder and hip axes before attaching the limbs.
Use proportions as a comparison tool
Choose a head unit for the exercise and compare the torso, arms and legs against it. The exact ratio may change with age and style, but it should stay consistent across views of the same original design.
- Mark shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee and ankle landmarks
- Compare left and right limb lengths
- Recheck the figure at thumbnail size
Show weight through joints and feet
Decide which leg carries the body. Angle the pelvis over that support, relax the opposite leg, and make the planted foot clearly contact the ground. In motion, show where the weight came from and where it is going.
Wrap clothing around the form
Add clothing only after the mannequin reads. Place folds near bends, compression and hanging points, then simplify them so the pose silhouette remains clear.
- Keep construction visible on a separate layer
- Check negative space between limbs
- Remove folds that do not explain form or movement