To begin with I gathered reference images from Google which comprised of different emotional expressions. By looking at the varied expressions, it was clear where the differences lay. Difference such as jowel lines, nasolabial folds, lip positioning, wrinkling of the nose and forehead, the tightening and loosening of the skin and expressions in the eyes and eyebrow positioning.
From there I began to sketch within Photoshop with a pencil brush. I started with the initial geometric shape of the head and once a blank expression and proportion was determined, I used the image references to guide the tailored emotion and muscle movement leading to realistic facial positioning.
I added light shading to end the drawing with a sketch-like feel and to add my own style to the concept. I used Hart’s book on Human Proportions to ensure the expressions were realistic and human. If I were to develop this further, I would focus on a wider range of expressions and would add more variations of the same expressions.
Hart, C. (2014) Figure it out! Human Proportions, Drawing with Christopher Hart. Sixth&Spring Books: New York. Published by Carrie Kilmer. Edited by Joy Aquilino.