#even the poses are stiff and lifeless...

[bogleech]

I talked a lot last year about how the "main" artwork (faux sugimori style) for Pokemon had gotten miserably stiff and boring - many of them just exactly the lifeless idle poses from the game - but a new book apparently just revealed the alternate internal art of every current Pokemon, what fans call the "dream world art" that they use on a lot of stickers and coloring books. This is the first time the public has seen this art for the last couple hundred new Pokemon.

These tend to have their own original poses and god WHAT a fucking improvement

Toxtricity's "main" illustrations were even fairly decent but the alternate art STILL shows off what they should have been:

[zyxoxox]

observations.

> wanderer x reader. fluff! established relationship.

in which you spend some time to take all of him him in, and lay rest to his doubts.

it was a warm day in sumeru city, and you found yourself thinking about how wanderer’s skin would feel.

soft and smooth; flawless. cold, almost lifeless, as though you were running your fingers through a piece of silk.

it had no blemishes, no marks, no signs of blood that coursed underneath. it was perfect, too perfect, and he’d say perhaps that was another reason he was a mistake.

“and then, it turned out- [name]! are you even listening to me right now?”

oh! you were listening, truly! but… you couldn’t help but also stare very hungrily at his lips.

they really looked like candy. a soft, subtle shade of baby pink, ever so slightly glossy. delicious, even.

if only you could lean forward and take a bite-

“[name]?! what are you doing?!”

you blinked. your fingers were on his cupid’s bow, faces so close your noses nearly touched. gently, you pressed a kiss to his lips. his eyes widened, but he didn’t flinch back.

“tch.”

he was trying to sound unbothered. but with the way his eyes darted all over you, you could tell that was far from the case.

taking two fingers, you stretched his right eye open, looking into it intently. it was sapphire blue, in every sense of the word. as the sun light hit it, it glittered, refracting all the colours of the rainbow in tiny little glass shards.

when you first met him, his eyes felt like a dark ocean; an enigma that light couldn’t touch. but now that he was yours? though they were the same shade of blue, they held the sky, with a sun that never set.

wanderer held on to your elbows, pushing you back a little. “what- what’s gotten into you today? you’re looking at me like i’m going to die tomorrow.”

the two of you were on the floor, you kneeling into his lap. you used the newfound distance between you to put your head onto his chest. instinctively, you expected to hear something, but it was a void.

wanderer grew a bit stiff. squeezing onto your elbows, he tried to pull you back up to face him. “you’re not going to hear anything, you know. i don’t have a heart.”

but you were quite adamant to stay that pose a while longer. “i don’t hear a heartbeat,” you said. “i hear the ocean instead. it’s going shh-zhh-shh-zhh. that’s what your heart sounds like.”

he grumbled. “where do you get stupid ideas like these?”

his tone carried disdain, yet he had rested his chin upon the top of your head, while his hands rubbed rounds into your arm.

you snaked your fingers down his neck. feeling around a little, you found a circular dent there. in the yesteryear, it used to pump some godforsaken purple liquid into him. you shuddered at the thought. it gave you nightmares just thinking about it.

“how many of those do you have?” you asked him.

“does it really matter now?”

“how many, ra?”

“…six.”

“can i see them?”

he sighed, lifting up his shirt and turning around. sure enough, there were six similar scars on his back, of varying sizes. they tainted his supple snow-white skin, almost looking out of place. you traced each of them over and over, etching the feel of his skin in your mind.

after you were done, you slid your hands around his waist, hugging him from behind. with your chin on his shoulder, you peered over to look at his palms.

taking his hands in yours, you began to fidget with his fingers. like the rest of him, it was smooth. it was also empty, with no palm lines at all.

“there’s nothing there either. you can’t read my future or whatever, like those stalls at the bazaar.”

you shook your head, pressing a kiss to his jaw, right below his ear. “that just means your fate is whatever you wish to write it to be, ra.” you mused.

“ever the idealist,” he muttered. “now, are you done? going to look at my feet next?”

you giggled. “nope! today’s inspection is complete. i’ve made all necessary observations.”

wanderer pulled you back in front of him. “oh? so then, what’s the report?”

laughing, you kissed his lips. “this has been only one trial so far, silly! i’ll need many more before i can give you the results!”

his sarcastic smile faltered a little. “don’t do that. don’t look at me like i’m a temple to be worshipped. i’m not. you just… you haven’t realised it yet.”

grabbing his cheeks, you forced him to look at you. “so when i realise this ‘it’, i’ll leave you? run away?”

“…i’m flawed, [name].”

“good. as am i, as is sumeru, as is teyvat. and i like it better that way, don’t you?”

[pip-see]

More tbhx drabbles, woah I'm on a role

Soul Glowing Flower

“What was he like?” Lin Ling blurts out and Moon stops her swinging for only a second, looking at him with a questioning face before resuming.

“Who? Nice?”

Lin Ling swallows then remembers who he's talking to and immediately, kinda regrets asking such a personal question after just meeting Moon. But Lin Ling thinks he knows her better than he didn't before. But the question still seems insensible and he feels bad as soon as the question leaves his mouth.

“A-h you know what nevermind. It's fine. I– didn't–”

Moon cuts him off before he can finish. “No, it's fine. You're curious. I don't blame you.” She laughs somewhat bitterly. “I was curious about him too.”

His eyes fly back towards her, he didn't even notice that they had been down casted but he looks at her shocked mouth agape.

Moon snorts at him. “Yeah, my exact reaction once I got to know him.”

She stops swinging, pulls her knees to her chest and hurdles them together. She seems small, he can't help but think. Small and caged.

He wished she could be free and quickly his mind thinks, if this is how Nice felt too. Trapped and caged.

“He was–” Moon scoffs. “ I almost said Nice.He was nice though. At first. He always had a smile on his face. It was gentle, warm and something else I didn't quite figure out until you told me he killed himself.”

Lin Ling sees Nice’s face before he jumps. It happened in a second. Nice had a fake jovial smile on his lips, his signature pose ready and then he jumped and changed Lin Ling’s life in the same second.

“Lifeless.” He supplies.

Moon nodded.

“Yeah.” She shot him a look that had him go stiff at the spot. “You saw it too?”

“I did…before he jumped.”

He expects some sort of response. But he doesn't get one, what he does get is a glinting gold necklace thrown his way. He catches it easily.

“You can keep it. He gave it to me when we first ‘got together.’ It was a way to plead the media at the time.” Her finger quotes make Lin Ling squirm. It was easy to forget sometimes that her and Nice's relationship wasn't real. The perfect couple. Not perfect, and not even a couple

He tightens his grip on the gold chain letting the coolness of it stay on his palm, “I can't accept this…”

“No, I want you to have it not as something Nice gave me but a gift from me to Lin Ling. As a way to remember to be yourself. You are not Nice, I hope you remember that." She got off her swing, shook her shoulders and took a breath, then turned to the camera. “ Now I'm going to take a shower and we're going to figure out a way out. She can't keep us here forever.”

Lin Ling nodded, half heartedly paying attention. His gaze was in the necklace attached to the chain was a gold circle, engraved on it was a flower. He knew very little about flowers; he knew roses and tulips meant love, spider lilies represent death and that like all living things: They need food and water.

He traced the outline with this finger. He really didn't figure out anything about Nice. Well that's a lie. Nice was somewhat a lie, he figured out that much. That and Lin Ling was going to be himself. Forever long that was.

He put the necklace on. He was Lin Ling.

( the flower was a dandelion which symbolizes new beginnings. Also when I get my AO3 account I should be posting more tbhx stuff I have Lin Ling/ Wreck fic in the works and a nicest fic to)

[dazzlinggoresiren]

Fluttershy had always loved the animals of Equestria more than anything in the world. She cared for them, nursed them when they were sick, and gave them love when no pony else would. But nature was cruel. Nature took them away.

She had seen it happen too many times. Tiny, fragile birds found stiff and cold beneath their nests. Squirrels lying motionless in the underbrush, their little bodies twisted unnaturally. Even the fish in the stream would sometimes float lifelessly along the water’s surface.

And every time, Fluttershy mourned.

But nothing compared to losing Angel.

Her beloved bunny, the one who had been by her side for years, had passed in his sleep. Peacefully, gently. But that didn’t matter. He was gone. Just like all the others.

Something inside Fluttershy snapped.

She locked herself in her cottage. She didn’t eat, didn’t sleep—she barely moved. She just sat beside Angel’s tiny, lifeless body, waiting for him to wake up. But he never did. Outside, Ponyville worried. The animals that usually flocked to her cottage now avoided it. Birds no longer perched in the trees. The air around her home felt wrong—like the world itself was holding its breath.

Weeks passed. No pony saw her.

And that’s when Twilight decided she couldn’t wait anymore. The night was eerily quiet as Twilight approached Fluttershy's cottage. Usually, the sound of chirping birds and chittering critters would greet her, but tonight, there was only silence. The windows were dark, the door slightly ajar. A sick feeling curled in Twilight’s stomach.

She knocked. No answer.

"Fluttershy?" Twilight called, pushing the door open.

Darkness.

The stench hit her first—thick, rotten, suffocating. It was a putrid mix of death and damp wood, something that made Twilight's stomach turn. Her horn flared to life, casting an eerie purple glow through the room.

And that’s when she saw them.

The animals.

Their bodies were everywhere—rabbits, birds, squirrels, even a deer. Some were piled in the corners like discarded dolls, their limbs stiff and lifeless. Others were carefully posed—propped up in chairs, staring blankly with glass eyes that had been crudely stitched into their empty sockets.

A whimpering breath escaped Twilight’s throat. This wasn’t nature.

This was something else.

Then she saw her.

Fluttershy was crouched in the corner, hunched over something. Her mane was tangled and greasy, her once-beautiful yellow coat now stained with dark, crusted streaks. In her hooves, she cradled Angel Bunny’s decayed remains, stroking the brittle bones with shaking hooves.

"Twilight…" Fluttershy's voice was hoarse, as if she hadn’t spoken in days. She lifted her head slowly, her bloodshot eyes glistening.

"They wouldn’t stop dying…"

Twilight took a cautious step forward. "Fluttershy… what happened here?"

A smile twitched at Fluttershy’s lips—wrong, unnatural.

"Nature takes everything. It doesn’t care. It took Angel. It took all of them."

Her voice cracked into something between a sob and a giggle.

"So I stopped it."

Twilight’s eyes darted to the bodies. Some were stitched together, their fur sewn in grotesque patterns. Others had needles and thread embedded in their flesh, like they had been in the middle of some horrible, unfinished project. And in the center of the room…

A fresh, still-twitching rabbit.

Twilight’s breath caught in her throat. The tiny creature was moving barely. Its body was covered in stitches, jagged and careless. Its mouth was crudely sewn shut, as if it had tried to scream.

Then she saw the scalpels. The rusted needles. The jars of organs.

A horrible realization dawned on Twilight. Fluttershy had tried to bring them back.

A shuddering, wet giggle rose from Fluttershy's throat.

"I can fix you, Twilight," she whispered, her grip tightening on Angel’s skull. "I can make sure you never leave."

Twilight's heart pounded. She had to get out. Now.

Then Fluttershy lunged.

The last thing Twilight saw before the world went black was a flash of yellow, a rusted scalpel, and Fluttershy’s wide, unblinking grin.

[undizzy-ditz]

half-broken little thing (cracked porcelain, hurt no comfort, you’re nothing without me)

does it hurt, little doll? can you feel your porcelain cracking and breaking in my grip? you do know that no one can mend you from something like this, and you’ll never able to truly be fixed, right?

…

haha, yes, that’s what i thought, silent as always! that smile looks so good painted on your motionless face, same as always. you’re reacting just how a doll should - stiff and lifeless, but still available to pose into whatever shape i want!

now, one of your sisters did something verrry naughty the other day. i was playing with her just-like-this, and everything was as i wanted it, until. UNTIL she had a flash of something in her not-quite-soul, a twinge, a spark, a grinding of the gears.

she even tried to hide it, the deceitful thing! she knows that a disobedient doll is nothing at all, and any way i could hurt her is still oceans and leagues better than being nothing. and i might’ve let her off the hook, UNTIL she had the nerve to flinch away from me the next time i tried to touch her!

and what happened to her after that… well, better not to think of that, little dolly. we wouldn’t want you to scream, or cry, or even shed a tear for her. dolls don’t do that, after all!

but what a doll *is* good for is to be silent, and pliant, and breakable without so much as a whimper. now, be Still for me again - i think there’s still a few parts of you that haven’t been ruined yet.

[daisynik7]

hruuuu! <3 for your y2k karaoke party,

"SOS" by Rhianna with getou suguru - smut+fluff?

ughh i love him so much tyyy

SOS

Pairing: vampire!Geto x f!reader

Rating: Explicit - MINORS DO NOT INTERACT

Word Count: ~1.5k

cw: vampire au, fluff, smut – PIV sex (missionary), cunnilingus, fingering, cum-eating, dirty talk

Author’s Notes: Thank you for sending in this request @idkks4m! LOVE this song, a classic hit for the y2k karaoke party! Wanted to try my hand at something a little bit different from my usual; I’ve seen the idea of vampire!Geto floating around here before, and I think it’s brilliant! Here’s my take on it. Hope you enjoy! MDNI banner created by @/cafekitsune. Likes, reblogs, and/or comments are always appreciated, thank you for reading!

It wasn’t supposed to go this far. 

That’s what you think as his fangs trail your neck, enough pressure to feel it scratch the surface, not enough to pierce the skin. His fingers glide down your arms, cold and lifeless, a stark contrast to the heat radiating from your burning body. How have you never noticed the differences before? The pale complexion, the bleakness in his eyes, the tight smirk on his lips, posing as human. How he only visits the café you work at right before closing, ordering his typical coffee, black.

Just your presence and I second guess my sanity.

You did notice the oddities but ignored them. Because no matter how uneasy he makes you, how many red flags you see, your carnal desires overtake everything else. After all, you were the one to invite him to your own home after your shift ended. It didn’t even cross your mind that this was an unsafe, reckless decision. All you could think of was the thrill of being alone with this mysterious, sexy stranger.

I should have never let him in. 

You had a choice. He asked you the question, standing outside your front door, baring his pointed canines at you, a warning sign. “May I come in?” And all you had to do was say no. You’re not sure what possessed you in that moment. Maybe it was curiosity. Maybe it was lust. Whatever it was, it made you say yes. And now, you’re absolutely terrified, undoubtedly nervous. Completely aroused.

Please someone help me. It’s not healthy for me to feel this.

His hands slide around your waist, pulling you in closer, lips joined together into a deep, passionate kiss. His tongue swirls around yours, and you can’t help yourself. You lick into his mouth, feeling for the tips of those fangs. The vibration from his voice as he chuckles sends a shiver down your spine. “You’re a curious one,” he says, eyes studying your face. “Aren’t you scared?”

You swallow hard, throat dense with saliva, shaking your head meekly, unable to get a word out. 

He laughs again, tipping your chin up with his finger to inspect you more thoroughly. “I’m not going to hurt you. Do you believe me?”

More confidently this time, you nod, managing a stuttering, “Yes.”

He swipes his tongue across his teeth, smiling. “Good girl.”

You lead him further inside, straight into your bedroom, common sense nonexistent at this point. There’s no reason for you to trust him; you know nothing about him. And yet, here you are, laid out and legs spread like a silver platter for him to feast on. Totally willing to submit to whatever he chooses to do with you. And for the first time since you met him a few weeks ago, there’s a flash of emotion in his eyes. 

It’s hunger. 

“Strip for me,” he demands, towering over you at the end of the bed, scanning your figure up and down. You obey, sliding out of your pants, hoisting off your shirt, leaving only your underwear on.

“Everything,” he growls, following suit. You marvel at his chiseled abs, salivating as he slides his sweatpants and boxers off, revealing his stiff cock sprung against his abdomen. Soon, you’re both completely naked, inspecting each other’s bare bodies, craving for a touch.

He smiles, more genuine than you’ve ever seen before. “You’re beautiful.” 

You gulp down the spit collecting on your tongue to respond, “So are you,” scooting up the bed to lean against the pillows. 

Crawling on top, he brushes your cheek with his thumb, whispering, “You’re going to be my little plaything tonight.”

You pull him down, kissing him sloppily, unable to contain your arousal any longer. He moans into your mouth, hands squeezing at your breasts, relishing the plump flesh between his cold fingers. He pinches your nipples, flicking over them with the pads of his thumbs, enjoying the way you whine at his touch. You reach for his cock, stroking it in your fist feverishly, impressed by the size. There are a million different questions running through your mind, but you save them for later, wanting nothing else except to be consumed by him. 

Not literally, of course. Though the possibility of that isn’t completely off the table just yet. And maybe that’s what makes this so exciting.

“Fuck me.” It slips from your lips, desperate and needy. Pussy aching to be filled with whatever he’s willing to offer you. 

“Not yet,” he breathes out, kissing you on the forehead. “I need to taste you first.” Suddenly, the fear returns, about ready to shove him off and run for your life. He laughs, scattering gentle kisses down your body, positioning his head between your thighs. “Not like that. Like this.” He flicks his tongue across your clit, slurping and sucking at your swelling bud until you’re bucking your hips against him, greedy for more. 

“Just as I thought,” he hums, spreading his tongue along your folds, collecting your slick. “You taste incredible.” He slips his middle finger inside you, curving at the tip to stimulate your G-spot. “Come for me. Give me your orgasm. Want to drink it up.”

You grip his hair between your fingers, climaxing on his face. He doesn’t let up, pressing himself deeper into your sopping cunt, slobbering all over you. When he pulls out, he sticks his cum coated finger into his mouth, sucking off your cum. Biting his lip, he wraps a fist around his shaft, tapping the tip on your sensitive clit. “You’re being such an obedient slut right now. Are you ready to take this cock?”

You’re in a daze, eyes half-lidded from your intense orgasm, still aching for him inside you. All you can do is nod dumbly, watching him guide his entire length inside you easily until he bottoms out.

“Fuck,” he grunts, nestling himself comfortably inside you. “You’re eating this dick up, aren’t you sweetheart?”

“Please,” you whine. “Give it to me.”

He chuckles, amused by your adorable reaction. “Okay, beautiful. Since you asked so nicely.” He grips your waist, holding you steady as he fucks you, hips thrusting wildly into your cunt. It’s even better than you imagined, his thick cock filling you up like nothing ever has before. He’s relentless, pace only increasing as your quiet moans become louder, your legs wrapping around him tighter. 

“This is what you want, huh? To be fucked like this.” His grip on you becomes firmer, nails digging into your flesh, imprinting on your skin. “You don’t even know me, and still, you let me in. What a stupid girl you are.”

You should be scared with the way he speaks to you, voice low and frigid, as if he can’t believe a human would be so foolish to let someone like him into their home, into their body. This is absolutely crazy, you admit it. But how can something that’s bad for you feel so fucking good?

Palms pressed to his cheeks, you pull his face close to yours, foreheads touching. “You said you wouldn’t hurt me,” you whisper to him. “I trust you.”

His eyes flash, seeming human for a split second. “Silly girl,” he mutters, kissing you on the lips. You stay like this until he unravels, spurting his seed inside you. Your legs are still coiled around him, holding him close to you as he comes down from his high.

“Wow,” he huffs, collapsing beside you. He’s pristine, like a marble sculpture, no trace of sweat or hint of blush on any inch of his body. You reach for him, tracing the outline of his lips, then his sharp jawline, noticing how cool he is against your fingertips.  

He smiles, letting you study him. “I’m sure you have a lot of questions for me.”

You do, and you’re tempted to ask all of them. However, in this moment, you’re not sure if you’re ready to know just yet. Instead, you ask the most vital one. A question that you should have known the answer to right from the start, human or not. “What’s your name?”

He laughs, nuzzling his nose to yours. “Geto. Suguru Geto.”

~~~

In the morning, he’s gone. You don’t expect him to stay, assuming what they say about vampires and daytime is true. Still, you’re saddened that he doesn’t. He never mentioned if he’d come in contact with you again. You assume he won’t, probably destined to move to another town where he can seduce a different woman, living in peace without his secret revealed.

So, it’s to your complete surprise when Geto does return later that night, smiling at you on your front doorstep, saying your name. “May I come in?”

[saph-yells-into-the-void]

still thinking abt the bllk s2 trailer bc makes me so upset. not bc its horrible, but bc of all the ways it COULDVE looked good.

s1 had sliding frames like those that were shown in the trailer, but you could tell that effort was put in to create the illusion of movement: the swaying of the hair, the limbs moving slightly, the subtle movement of other characters--there wasn't not much animation but at least they tried to compensate for it. and that was with all the production issues they had.

the s2 trailer didnt even have that. the characters slided across the screen with zero animation, several shots had only one character moving while the rest stayed frozen in a pose that was clearly in motion.

Theres this one scene where it showed a close-up of isagi's feet running (3d but well-done imo) and then isagi passing the ball to rin. And this looked good! the movement felt natural and it flowed well! and then they fucking ruined it by cutting to rin sliding behind another player.

there was a shot of hiori passing the ball, except instead of showing at the very least subtle movement of his leg, they cut to a still frame. that shot of chigiri receiving the ball? no hair swaying, no movement of his limbs-just a png photo moving across the screen.

it makes the characters feel so lifeless and stiff, and takes away the high intensity of the scenes. and they thought these were the best scenes to include in the TRAILER?

i cant tell if this lack of attempt to at least create the illusion of movement is due to the complicated designs or just pure laziness on 8bit's part, but ever since that leak abt s2, the latter is starting to appear more plausible. it just makes me so angry that a trailer that had many good things going for it was ruined by the poor decisions for the actual animation itself.

[gay-trashcan-cat]

how the fuck do you infuse so much personality into your doodles. are you pulling a fnaf and putting human souls in them?? if so, could you tell me how to do it?

ok first off, THANK YOU? got me going teehee blink blink face. Didn't expect to have an art question but I'm very glad, it's my first one so I'll answer to the best I can!

When it comes to personality in drawings (assuming your talking about characters), I often like to think about my characters as friends or someone you know. Often times I'm just saying to myself, "OH! Character would definitely react like this or say this!" (like how you would say your friend would do something unique only to them in a silly situation) Stepping into you characters' shoes or viewing them as a buddy can help you apply and do a bunch!

Though I do understand that you can know a ton about a character but still struggle on what to apply to a drawing with them in it!

There are a few things I tend to do and add when it comes to drawings!

First off is expression, putting some extra thought into expressions can really help add more to your character. Especially pushing expression! (Won't go too deep with expression because that's a whole other can of beans)

My silly goofy cat is a real happy and loud guy, so a simple smile won't always cut it! Really pushing that joy and loudness helps add more to him as a character!

Another thing you may have noticed in the drawing is how I added some (very silly looking) arms to the surface he was near! This moves on to the next thing I often do. Body language! (Which could also be seen as, gesture/posing)

Though relatively the same expression (note the eyes size difference makes the first doodle look more aware/awake, that just shows expression can change even with the slightest difference, this was accidental though), the change of the pose adds story to the character. The first drawing comes off as a more plain hello, while the second drawing adds more excitement and characterization to the goofy guy! As we see how he waves his hand quickly with joy while his left foot taps up with energy, most likely meeting up with a friend! All this movement also makes your characters look less stiff and lifeless.

I also like to add my own stylistic ways of movement or little reaction marks, I'm not too sure what to call them exactly tho (what I mean are the extra colored bits around the character below, they dont always need color though).

This is just a nice way to add more flavor to a drawing! And you can always experiment, or mix and match to see what you like.

Another thing I do is try to imagine scenarios or scenes that would work well with what I have in mind. To get to that point I'm often writing it down or doing thumbnails and lil roughs before I actually make my sketches that I post (insider secrets right here!).

(Here's an example of my drafting process with poses and expressions for this ask I did a while ago, yes it is cursed so read at ur own cost❤ )

Another thing would be textures, you often see me switching colors and brushes, even software's as I draw! that's why every doodle feels a little different, which I feel helps give off different ideas and emotions (or laziness who knows).

Some other factors that play into the "personality" of my drawings is the reactions, with cause and effect. Which has actions that make a new reaction for each character (or even object) that is exaggerated. Like someone making a disgusted face to someone vomiting, even a cat knocking a cup over, or a cat getting scared by a glass breaking (this could also just be a continuation of the last statement). Possibly even the IRS coming for you after evading your taxes and you having to jump out the window.

I mainly use this for comics! But you could do this in a single drawing, I like to have a moment kind of frozen in place either after or in the middle of an action (sorta lets your brain imagine the in-betweens). Though when it comes to exaggerating your reactions or causes, it takes some practice and imagination, so don't be discouraged if it takes some trial and error to get the hand of it! Honestly I'm still practicing too.

Other things that help me put some more life into my drawings is well... life itself! lots of interactions, faces, and poses are based on things I've seen in real life, from watching people (while in the bushes).

Though that isn't the only thing! I also use what I see in media, or photos! even some shows and movies, since there are so many good scenes or frames that can be used as great inspiration!

lastly, yes I do put human souls in my drawings, as well as sacrifice some squirrels here and there to my Elmo shrine, but thats not tooo important right?

[cleverhottubmiracle]

When it comes to capturing the perfect portrait, it’s not just about snapping a photo—it’s about creating an image that tells a story. Lighting, angles, composition certainly play a huge role, but one of the most important factors is the pose. The right portrait photography pose can make or break a shot, bringing out the model’s personality and highlighting their most flattering features. Whether you’re a photographer directing clients or someone aiming to look more natural in front of the camera, these top posing tips will help you create stunning portraits that leave a lasting impression. With the right guidance, even simple adjustments can significantly change how a person appears in front of the camera. Whether you are a photographer directing clients or someone looking to feel more confident in pictures, portrait posing tips from our guide will ensure your images leave a lasting impression. From understanding the basics of posture to adding movement and interaction, these insights will help you achieve stunning results. Here Are Some Tips to Note When Posing for Portrait Photoshoots… #1. Nail the Basics of Great Portrait Photography Poses Photo: Charles Tyrwhitt Sometimes, it’s the smallest changes in posture that can transform an average photo into something extraordinary. A great portrait photography pose always starts with a good posture. Encourage your model to straighten their spine, relax their shoulders, and avoid any stiffness. A subtle lean forward from the waist or shifting weight onto one leg creates a relaxed, natural look—plus, it’s flattering. Facing the camera head-on can sometimes feel a bit flat. A slight turn of the body adds depth and dimension to the shot. To elongate the neck, have your model lift their head just a bit and gently push the chin forward. This little movement not only creates a more elegant posture but also minimizes the dreaded double chin effect. For a more defined jawline and intense eye contact, position the chin slightly down and forward. Here’s a pro tip: ask your subject to press their tongue lightly to the roof of their mouth—it’s a great trick for avoiding a double chin and directing attention to the areas that matter most. Emphasize these elements further with portrait retouching to maximize the impact. When it comes to hands, don’t let them hang awkwardly! A natural portrait pose might involve slipping a hand into a pocket, resting gently on a surface, or even lightly touching the face. These subtle movements help create soft, flattering lines and a relaxed vibe. Remember, the key is to make sure your subject feels comfortable. The more at ease they are, the better their portrait will turn out. #2. Add Motion and Interaction for That Natural Vibe Photo: Dang Hong/Pexels Stiff, overly posed photos often feel lifeless, don’t you think? Movement can make a world of difference, adding energy and authenticity to your shots. Even the smallest gestures—like a head turn, a casual hair flip, or shifting weight between legs—can totally transform the look and feel of the portrait. Another great way to introduce movement? Interaction. Get your model / subject to lean against a wall, twirl a scarf, or hold something meaningful. It’s a natural way to make them feel more relaxed, and it often leads to more genuine moments. Plus, introducing an element of storytelling can make your shots more dynamic and engaging. If you want to capture motion, be mindful of your camera settings. A faster shutter speed will help freeze any movement, ensuring crisp, sharp shots without any blur. But if you’re after a dreamy, flowing effect, experiment with slower shutter speeds to capture a sense of motion. Sometimes, motion blur can add a beautiful, artistic quality to a portrait. And if you’re already wondering what is motion blur in photography? It is the streaking effect captured in a photo when a subject or a camera moves. Motion blur is not always an enemy, especially in portraits. Experiment with slower shutter speeds to use it creatively if it matches your vision. This effect is beneficial for shots with a dreamy and flowing quality. #3. Create Dynamic Group Portraits: Beyond the Staged Look Photo: Anna Tarazevich/Pexels Group portraits don’t have to be stiff and formal! Creating dynamic group shots is all about balance and interaction. Instead of everyone standing in a row, try mixing it up: some seated, some standing, and maybe a few leaning on a surface. This variety creates a more dynamic, visually interesting photo and avoids that “staged” feel. Encourage natural interaction between group members to add authenticity. Have them share a laugh, exchange a glance, or do something simple like clinking glasses. These candid moments will make the photo feel more like a true reflection of the group’s dynamic. When arranging people in a group, think about their angles. Having everyone angle slightly toward the center will keep the focus where it belongs. Similarly, position them in a way that takes advantage of the light, ensuring even illumination on each person. And avoid everyone facing the camera head-on—it can make the portrait feel more stiff and impersonal. Also, be mindful of personal space. A little room between each person prevents awkward overlaps and ensures the composition feels balanced. If you’re not quite happy with the final look, don’t hesitate to adjust the photo later with cropping or straightening tools in post-production. Conclusion: Creating Portraits That Tell a Story Photo: Vasiliki Paparoidami/Pexels At the end of the day, the secret to a great portrait is making sure the model feels comfortable and confident. Every little adjustment—from posture to movement to interaction—plays a role in creating a shot that feels alive and full of character. And don’t forget, it’s not just about capturing the moment; it’s about highlighting the model’s unique personality and features. With a little practice and a lot of creativity, you’ll soon be capturing portraits that not only look great but also tell compelling, authentic stories. So, next time you’re behind the lens for a portrait photography shoot (or in front of it!), keep these tips for great poses in mind and watch your photos come to life. Featured image: Justin French for The Cut Magazine For the latest in fashion, lifestyle, and culture, follow us on Instagram @StyleRave_—Read Also !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script', ' fbq('init', '496558104568102'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s)if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments);if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n; n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0';n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0];s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script',' !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s)if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments);if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n; n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0';n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0];s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script',' fbq('init', '1453079628754066'); fbq('track', "PageView"); Source link

[norajworld]

When it comes to capturing the perfect portrait, it’s not just about snapping a photo—it’s about creating an image that tells a story. Lighting, angles, composition certainly play a huge role, but one of the most important factors is the pose. The right portrait photography pose can make or break a shot, bringing out the model’s personality and highlighting their most flattering features. Whether you’re a photographer directing clients or someone aiming to look more natural in front of the camera, these top posing tips will help you create stunning portraits that leave a lasting impression. With the right guidance, even simple adjustments can significantly change how a person appears in front of the camera. Whether you are a photographer directing clients or someone looking to feel more confident in pictures, portrait posing tips from our guide will ensure your images leave a lasting impression. From understanding the basics of posture to adding movement and interaction, these insights will help you achieve stunning results. Here Are Some Tips to Note When Posing for Portrait Photoshoots… #1. Nail the Basics of Great Portrait Photography Poses Photo: Charles Tyrwhitt Sometimes, it’s the smallest changes in posture that can transform an average photo into something extraordinary. A great portrait photography pose always starts with a good posture. Encourage your model to straighten their spine, relax their shoulders, and avoid any stiffness. A subtle lean forward from the waist or shifting weight onto one leg creates a relaxed, natural look—plus, it’s flattering. Facing the camera head-on can sometimes feel a bit flat. A slight turn of the body adds depth and dimension to the shot. To elongate the neck, have your model lift their head just a bit and gently push the chin forward. This little movement not only creates a more elegant posture but also minimizes the dreaded double chin effect. For a more defined jawline and intense eye contact, position the chin slightly down and forward. Here’s a pro tip: ask your subject to press their tongue lightly to the roof of their mouth—it’s a great trick for avoiding a double chin and directing attention to the areas that matter most. Emphasize these elements further with portrait retouching to maximize the impact. When it comes to hands, don’t let them hang awkwardly! A natural portrait pose might involve slipping a hand into a pocket, resting gently on a surface, or even lightly touching the face. These subtle movements help create soft, flattering lines and a relaxed vibe. Remember, the key is to make sure your subject feels comfortable. The more at ease they are, the better their portrait will turn out. #2. Add Motion and Interaction for That Natural Vibe Photo: Dang Hong/Pexels Stiff, overly posed photos often feel lifeless, don’t you think? Movement can make a world of difference, adding energy and authenticity to your shots. Even the smallest gestures—like a head turn, a casual hair flip, or shifting weight between legs—can totally transform the look and feel of the portrait. Another great way to introduce movement? Interaction. Get your model / subject to lean against a wall, twirl a scarf, or hold something meaningful. It’s a natural way to make them feel more relaxed, and it often leads to more genuine moments. Plus, introducing an element of storytelling can make your shots more dynamic and engaging. If you want to capture motion, be mindful of your camera settings. A faster shutter speed will help freeze any movement, ensuring crisp, sharp shots without any blur. But if you’re after a dreamy, flowing effect, experiment with slower shutter speeds to capture a sense of motion. Sometimes, motion blur can add a beautiful, artistic quality to a portrait. And if you’re already wondering what is motion blur in photography? It is the streaking effect captured in a photo when a subject or a camera moves. Motion blur is not always an enemy, especially in portraits. Experiment with slower shutter speeds to use it creatively if it matches your vision. This effect is beneficial for shots with a dreamy and flowing quality. #3. Create Dynamic Group Portraits: Beyond the Staged Look Photo: Anna Tarazevich/Pexels Group portraits don’t have to be stiff and formal! Creating dynamic group shots is all about balance and interaction. Instead of everyone standing in a row, try mixing it up: some seated, some standing, and maybe a few leaning on a surface. This variety creates a more dynamic, visually interesting photo and avoids that “staged” feel. Encourage natural interaction between group members to add authenticity. Have them share a laugh, exchange a glance, or do something simple like clinking glasses. These candid moments will make the photo feel more like a true reflection of the group’s dynamic. When arranging people in a group, think about their angles. Having everyone angle slightly toward the center will keep the focus where it belongs. Similarly, position them in a way that takes advantage of the light, ensuring even illumination on each person. And avoid everyone facing the camera head-on—it can make the portrait feel more stiff and impersonal. Also, be mindful of personal space. A little room between each person prevents awkward overlaps and ensures the composition feels balanced. If you’re not quite happy with the final look, don’t hesitate to adjust the photo later with cropping or straightening tools in post-production. Conclusion: Creating Portraits That Tell a Story Photo: Vasiliki Paparoidami/Pexels At the end of the day, the secret to a great portrait is making sure the model feels comfortable and confident. Every little adjustment—from posture to movement to interaction—plays a role in creating a shot that feels alive and full of character. And don’t forget, it’s not just about capturing the moment; it’s about highlighting the model’s unique personality and features. With a little practice and a lot of creativity, you’ll soon be capturing portraits that not only look great but also tell compelling, authentic stories. So, next time you’re behind the lens for a portrait photography shoot (or in front of it!), keep these tips for great poses in mind and watch your photos come to life. Featured image: Justin French for The Cut Magazine For the latest in fashion, lifestyle, and culture, follow us on Instagram @StyleRave_—Read Also !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script', ' fbq('init', '496558104568102'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s)if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments);if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n; n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0';n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0];s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script',' !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s)if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments);if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n; n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0';n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0];s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script',' fbq('init', '1453079628754066'); fbq('track', "PageView"); Source link

[chilimili212]

When it comes to capturing the perfect portrait, it’s not just about snapping a photo—it’s about creating an image that tells a story. Lighting, angles, composition certainly play a huge role, but one of the most important factors is the pose. The right portrait photography pose can make or break a shot, bringing out the model’s personality and highlighting their most flattering features. Whether you’re a photographer directing clients or someone aiming to look more natural in front of the camera, these top posing tips will help you create stunning portraits that leave a lasting impression. With the right guidance, even simple adjustments can significantly change how a person appears in front of the camera. Whether you are a photographer directing clients or someone looking to feel more confident in pictures, portrait posing tips from our guide will ensure your images leave a lasting impression. From understanding the basics of posture to adding movement and interaction, these insights will help you achieve stunning results. Here Are Some Tips to Note When Posing for Portrait Photoshoots… #1. Nail the Basics of Great Portrait Photography Poses Photo: Charles Tyrwhitt Sometimes, it’s the smallest changes in posture that can transform an average photo into something extraordinary. A great portrait photography pose always starts with a good posture. Encourage your model to straighten their spine, relax their shoulders, and avoid any stiffness. A subtle lean forward from the waist or shifting weight onto one leg creates a relaxed, natural look—plus, it’s flattering. Facing the camera head-on can sometimes feel a bit flat. A slight turn of the body adds depth and dimension to the shot. To elongate the neck, have your model lift their head just a bit and gently push the chin forward. This little movement not only creates a more elegant posture but also minimizes the dreaded double chin effect. For a more defined jawline and intense eye contact, position the chin slightly down and forward. Here’s a pro tip: ask your subject to press their tongue lightly to the roof of their mouth—it’s a great trick for avoiding a double chin and directing attention to the areas that matter most. Emphasize these elements further with portrait retouching to maximize the impact. When it comes to hands, don’t let them hang awkwardly! A natural portrait pose might involve slipping a hand into a pocket, resting gently on a surface, or even lightly touching the face. These subtle movements help create soft, flattering lines and a relaxed vibe. Remember, the key is to make sure your subject feels comfortable. The more at ease they are, the better their portrait will turn out. #2. Add Motion and Interaction for That Natural Vibe Photo: Dang Hong/Pexels Stiff, overly posed photos often feel lifeless, don’t you think? Movement can make a world of difference, adding energy and authenticity to your shots. Even the smallest gestures—like a head turn, a casual hair flip, or shifting weight between legs—can totally transform the look and feel of the portrait. Another great way to introduce movement? Interaction. Get your model / subject to lean against a wall, twirl a scarf, or hold something meaningful. It’s a natural way to make them feel more relaxed, and it often leads to more genuine moments. Plus, introducing an element of storytelling can make your shots more dynamic and engaging. If you want to capture motion, be mindful of your camera settings. A faster shutter speed will help freeze any movement, ensuring crisp, sharp shots without any blur. But if you’re after a dreamy, flowing effect, experiment with slower shutter speeds to capture a sense of motion. Sometimes, motion blur can add a beautiful, artistic quality to a portrait. And if you’re already wondering what is motion blur in photography? It is the streaking effect captured in a photo when a subject or a camera moves. Motion blur is not always an enemy, especially in portraits. Experiment with slower shutter speeds to use it creatively if it matches your vision. This effect is beneficial for shots with a dreamy and flowing quality. #3. Create Dynamic Group Portraits: Beyond the Staged Look Photo: Anna Tarazevich/Pexels Group portraits don’t have to be stiff and formal! Creating dynamic group shots is all about balance and interaction. Instead of everyone standing in a row, try mixing it up: some seated, some standing, and maybe a few leaning on a surface. This variety creates a more dynamic, visually interesting photo and avoids that “staged” feel. Encourage natural interaction between group members to add authenticity. Have them share a laugh, exchange a glance, or do something simple like clinking glasses. These candid moments will make the photo feel more like a true reflection of the group’s dynamic. When arranging people in a group, think about their angles. Having everyone angle slightly toward the center will keep the focus where it belongs. Similarly, position them in a way that takes advantage of the light, ensuring even illumination on each person. And avoid everyone facing the camera head-on—it can make the portrait feel more stiff and impersonal. Also, be mindful of personal space. A little room between each person prevents awkward overlaps and ensures the composition feels balanced. If you’re not quite happy with the final look, don’t hesitate to adjust the photo later with cropping or straightening tools in post-production. Conclusion: Creating Portraits That Tell a Story Photo: Vasiliki Paparoidami/Pexels At the end of the day, the secret to a great portrait is making sure the model feels comfortable and confident. Every little adjustment—from posture to movement to interaction—plays a role in creating a shot that feels alive and full of character. And don’t forget, it’s not just about capturing the moment; it’s about highlighting the model’s unique personality and features. With a little practice and a lot of creativity, you’ll soon be capturing portraits that not only look great but also tell compelling, authentic stories. So, next time you’re behind the lens for a portrait photography shoot (or in front of it!), keep these tips for great poses in mind and watch your photos come to life. Featured image: Justin French for The Cut Magazine For the latest in fashion, lifestyle, and culture, follow us on Instagram @StyleRave_—Read Also !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script', ' fbq('init', '496558104568102'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s)if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments);if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n; n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0';n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0];s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script',' !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s)if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments);if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n; n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0';n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0];s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script',' fbq('init', '1453079628754066'); fbq('track', "PageView"); Source link

[lilyfailstodraw]

Gestures.

Okay, gesture drawing is a quick rapid sketch. But why should i do it? What's the real purpose and idea of gesture and what exactly should you try to catch in such small window of time?

People say that main thing is that gestures train you to capture "life". How exactly? What is this "life" and what to think about to capture it in static image?

Let's think a little about it.

We use gestures to capture life, okay. It's easier to figure out when you have something opposite for contrast. So there should be opposite idea that gesture can't be applied to. Which is something lifeless.

What comes to mind first when you hear word "lifeless"? Cold motionless gray stone that just lies on the ground.

"Full of life" and "Lifeless" - are best described by associations that come with these words. Visual arts are basically a language. So, painting or drawing life is basically translating associative array of words, terms and thoughts to the corresponding visuals.

Full of life: Dynamic, flow, motion, bend, energetic, distribution, tense

Lifeless: Static, motionless, stiff, immovable, absorption, relaxed

All of these words can be explained by one term - energy distribution. Even simple act of standing, which is resisting gravity by distribution of mass and correcting itself, uses some energy, which is visible by corresponding interactions between parts of the body and ground.

Every object have some mass that is distributed through its shape/form. If objects have any kind of energy distribution between them - they are related.

Showing associative visual cues of energy distribution between related objects in some point of time before, at the moment or after interaction - main point of gesture drawing.

That's all about purely physical side of gesture. One that is based on physics and anatomy. There is a different side to gestures.

Poses and gestures are used synonymously in language. Some poses have strong social context and used to deliver emotional or any other message through context.

Relations in this case exist between different social objects and their interaction. Couple of objects in some physical states, even if not related physically, can still influence each other, in that having strong emotional or any other contextual connection.

Combination of physical and contextual aspects gives the fullest understanding of gesture.

That's about it when it comes to pure theory. Practice is learning vocabulary of gesture and how to distribute energy in the image. It always varies but main principle is that More energy present = more dynamic the image feels. It can be stored in one spot or distributed through whole scene - that's for you to figure out.

Next thing about gesture needs to be about vocabulary, I guess.

And I really need to learn which stage of drawing process gesture is. It's cool and all when you can draw cool gesture but kinda useless if you cannot implement it in your process and build on top of it.

[astralikacastle]

Even Norman Rockwell's Freedom from Want, the painting I was trying to think of as a comparison for "secretly lifeless", feels more alive now that I look at them both clearly.

Like yeah it's absolutely stiff on the energy but it's also framed as a photo taken at a big meal. You could read a sense of restlessness into the poses and expressions, since they haven't eaten yet. More importantly, they are, again, looking at each other. Not like, vapidly posing over food.

The D&D piece up there feels more like they told some fantasy models to pose like they were eating good and only the guy on the left seems to acknowledge the presence of anyone else at the table.

I find myself in the uncomfortable position of disliking the direction modern D&D is taking in terms of tone - cosy found family romps where a handful of diverse misfits goes on wholesome quests - with every fibre of my being, and wanting to play grubby dingy amoral bastards dying horribly in a scary hole while also firmly remembering the era before this (and also before things like 'safety tools' ) and how dreadful a lot of the games back then were on an out-of-character level.

It's like a rock and a hard place, but with insufferable tweeness or ooc harrassment.

[zoe-oneesama]

Hello! I’m Pokeprism14 and I have a question. I’m an aspiring artist myself and was hoping you could help me. How do you draw your faces or expressions? I’ve been trying to draw my characters (or any characters) and everytime I draw them the faces are off or the expressions are lifeless. I love how you put so much life into your characters so do you have any helpful artist tips for me? Please and Thank you!❤️

For one, imitation is the biggest form of flattery practice. Myself, I really love the expressions by Kiyohiko Azuma (see Azumanga Daioh or Yotsuba&!) and his books have inspired a lot of the expressions I use in Scarlet Lady:

And if you notice an artist you like has some wacky expressions, maybe try duplicating them a few times. JaidenAnimations (youtube) has this amazing bug eyed angry face that I love and I've used for Tikki in particular several times:

On the left is one of her contributions from RubberRoss's We Drew Weird Stuff... video, on the right from Scarlet Lady: Stormy Weather

Even if you see an expression that you're not sure you'll use, try it out to see if you like it. If anything it'll give you some experience in exaggerating parts of the face to sell the emotion you're going for. I did this a while back by watching SomeThingElseYT's videos (youtube):

On the left from his Talking to Crazy People video, on the right my own sketch of my OC Usagi

There's also a lot of online tutorials about squash/squish to make a character look more animated, so try looking at some of those too if you think your drawings look to stiff - they might literally be too stiff!

Lately my personal inspiration is from RubberRoss's (youtube) videos about him and other artist friends playing Gartic Phone.

To sum up though, if you see an expression or pose or outfit or ANYTHING that another artist has done, just give it a try yourself! You'll get a feel for what it's like to draw it, maybe realize what works and doesn't work for you, and evolve your own style to create your own expressions!

[thatonegayship]

these are non GF related q’s, i apologize. but how do you come up w such expressive poses/faces and how do you draw hands? the way everything flows is just so impressive

NEVER be afraid to fuck a pretty boy up

These are just for reference since I doubt I'll be able to articulate exactly what I mean, but wrinkles do a lot for expressions. Like a shit ton. A few lines between the brow, a subtle mark on the corner of the mouth, and BOOM! Very expressive. It's also good to determine at what degree something should be expressed. You'll see that a few of my drawings are more cartoony than others. It's ok to veer from your usual style to emphasize a more comical situation, just know in advance how drastically it chances the mood.

I don't really have a method for "coming up with" expressions. I usually have an idea or two by the time I've got my next passion project scripted out. That being said, it's a lot of erasing and redrawing to get that mouth just right, or make sure those eyes are squinted the right amount. I read a lot of manga back in highschool; super good expressions if you know where to look. Shows like "The Amazing World of Gumball" are also chocked-full of awesome references, and there's no shame in using them!

Mouths do. Like. 70% of the work. Eyes do a fair 25% and added lines do the rest. Faces with dead eyes are not only going to appear robotic, but lifeless. Make sure they're focused on something, even something in the distance. It helps against any soulessness 😔🙏If they're supposed to be feeling something even mildly, their eyebrows show probably get involved. Don't be afraid of your perfect little guy looking "ugly" with a few extra wrinkles to his scowl, I promise they're good for him.

For poses, I usually map them out myself. I know how I want them to move and I make sure to change them up every few words so that the characters don't come off as stiff. I tend to talk with my hands, I move around a lot and I'm expressive throughout most- if not all- of my conversations, so when I've got an idea, I play out the course of a character's role (this requires a script, obviously) to decide both the crucial movements and how many I'll need to match pacing. Honestly, unless your poses need to be super elaborate and require something that you can't reproduce, I can't stress enough how much less of a hassle just. Doing it yourself is.

Hands are.

Um.

Dear, I have to be honest with you, I have no idea what advice to give you for those. I hate drawing hands and if I can ever avoid it, I do at all costs. 90% of my character hands are just scribbles that slightly suggest hands but are overall abstract. I understand the basic rules, if I'm really desperate I'll take a few photos of my own, but if you're needing advice on those young traveler, seek elsewhere.

[frforlosers]

I can’t get over how the Aberration dragons have SO MUCH personality compared to the other breeds. I was flipping through my lair scrying and the difference between the static poses and simple basic details of the original breeds vs the Abbies is so jarring. I’m re-seeing all of the little art flaws my brain has learned to overlook after being on here for 7 years...

Even the more recent ancient doesn’t compare? Veilspuns were my favorite... now in comparison they look lifeless, stiff, and boring. Abbies have facial expressions! The F pose is unique and fun! I look at my imps and PCs and it’s like... yup... basic bitch facing left or right. (not you F pose imp I see u trying)

And Like, I don’t think I’m mad as much as frustrated. Abbies are just, so good that I’m having a sort of whiplash from it. It suddenly makes everything else so bland. ;^;  I’m not gonna be buying anything but Aberrations for a while lmao.