The average human is 7 1/2 heads tall when standing, from the bottom of the foot to the top of the head. (Not the top of the hairstyle!) What you want to do when measuring, is always re-measure the head first to be sure you have the correct height, then move your pencil (or other implement) down to the next area, then make the appropriate mark on your paper. It's a very tedious and meticulous task, but the more you do it, the better your eye will get and the more you can trust it.
Of course, every person is different, however, the head measurement system seems to be the most accurate for almost any body type (at least those that I've come across so far in my career). There are particular anchor points, or landmarks, that you want to make sure you get pinned down every time to ensure an accurate drawing. At each head length, you'll look for a particular piece of anatomy. Before I get too wordy and confusing, take a look at this visual (explanation follows) :
As you can see, I marked off each head height in red (Remember that half-head at the bottom. Not a full one!) The anatomical parts you need to look for when measuring is as follows : Top of the head to chin - Chin to nipples - Nipples to naval - Naval to crotch - Crotch to lower thigh (no noticeable landmark - this one is a little tough) - Lower thigh to bottom of patella - Bottom of patella to upper ankle - Upper ankle to bottom of foot.
The legs are particularly difficult at first because there are very few solid landmarks to work with - you'll have to do your best and try to find a good landmark to associate with the measurement on the model you're working from. When in doubt, keep in mind that the figure is 3 1/2 heads from the crotch to the bottom of the foot.
When you get your tick marks on your page letting you know where your correct measurements are, double check your work by using the great trochanter - this is the exact center of the height of the body. Image follows :
The great trochanter is a fantastic landmark because you'll always be able to see it, no matter what the shape of your model. With this landmark, you will measure Top of the head to great trochanter - Great trochanter to the base of the foot. If all lines up, great! If not, go back to comparing the head height to your landmarks until you have it right.
I definitely understand that this process can be frustrating, but it is absolutely essential for accurate figures!! Practice, practice, practice and get to know what landmarks you're looking for. The purpose here is precision. An architect wouldn't propose to build on anything but a solid foundation, nor should the fine artist!
Now go practice and make some fantastic (and accurate) drawings!
Next week's lesson : Relative proportions
