When we first start drawing, especially if we’re aiming for realism, it’s easy to get lost in the details. We think: “If I just draw every hair, every line, every speck, then my drawing will look real.”

But realism isn’t about capturing every single mark you see. It’s about creating the feeling of life on the page. And there are three areas that make the biggest difference: values, details, and finishing touches.

1. Values: The Foundation of Realism

Values are simply the lights, darks, and everything in between. They’re what give your drawing depth and dimension.

Most of us start by focusing on extremes – really dark darks and really light lights. But the magic happens in the subtle shifts between them. Those gentle changes in tone create the contours of a face, the shine on fur, or the curve of a nose.

💡 Think of values as the “glue” that holds realism together. Even without a single fur line drawn in, a portrait with strong, accurate values can look incredibly lifelike.

2. Rethinking “Details”

When you hear the word detail, what do you think of? Tiny fur lines? Every wrinkle, every whisker?

Here’s the truth: details aren’t just about lines. In realism, details are often the minute shifts in value – that tiny glimmer in an eye, or the soft shadow under a muzzle.

Overworking every hair can actually take away from realism, especially on smooth-coated animals. Instead, save your sharpest detail for focal points like the eyes and soften the surrounding areas. That way, the viewer’s attention goes exactly where you want it.

3. The Power of Finishing Touches With Realism

This is the step so many artists overlook, yet it’s where your drawing truly elevates. Finishing is all about refinement:

• Softening edges so fur blends naturally into the background.
  
• Making sure highlights are accurate (not too white, not too flat).
  
• Using little tweaks of colour – like a whisper of pink or orange in black fur – to add depth and richness.
  

Finishing is about asking: “Where do I want the viewer’s eye to rest?” and then guiding them there with contrast, softness, and intentional choices.

Remember: It’s a Process

Every artist goes through stages …focusing on details first, then realising values are key, and finally learning how finishing touches transform a piece. Some move through quickly, others more slowly. Neither way is wrong.

The important thing is to enjoy the process. Drawing should feel joyful, not stressful. When you shift your focus from perfection to progress, you’ll not only create better art, you’ll also fall in love with the journey.

Your next step:

Next time you pick up your pencils, pause before diving into the details. Ask yourself:

• Are my values strong enough?
  
• Am I adding details that matter or just lines for the sake of it?
  
• How can I finish this piece so it feels polished and intentional?
  

Because realism isn’t about copying – it’s about capturing life. And with values, thoughtful details, and those all-important finishing touches, your drawings really can walk off the page.

For more nuggets of creative wisdom (plus behind-the-scenes stories, pep talks, and a healthy dose of laughter), make sure you’re signed up to my weekly Scribble newsletter. It’s like having me pop into your inbox with a cuppa each week cheering you on, sharing tips to keep your pencils moving, and reminding you that progress (not perfection!) is what matters most. Click here to sign up