Perspective Drawing
One-, two- and three-point perspective
Also known as: One point perspective · Two point perspective · Three point perspective · Vanishing point · Horizon line · Perspective grid
Definition
Perspective drawing is the method of showing 3D space on a flat surface, so that objects look smaller and converge as they go away from the viewer. It uses a horizon line at eye level and vanishing points where parallel lines meet. One-point perspective has a single vanishing point and suits straight-on views of corridors and roads, two-point shows corners of buildings, and three-point adds a vertical vanishing point for high or low views. Artists also use it to build environments and sets.
In production
Set the horizon and vanishing points before drawing, and keep all parallel lines consistent. Use perspective grids in Photoshop or Krita, or build a rough 3D blockout and paint over it. The camera's field of view determines how strong the convergence is, so a wide-angle view needs more distortion. Many concept artists learn perspective by drawing boxes and cylinders until they can place any object in space.
Learn Perspective Drawing in
Tools that use Perspective Drawing
See also
Perspective Looks Wrong
Buildings and rooms look warped or off
Focal Length and Field of View
How wide the camera sees
Blockout
Rough mass + scale placeholder
Paintover
Painting on top of a 3D render or sketch
Composition Basics
Arranging shapes to guide the eye
Photobashing
Building a concept by combining and painting over photos