From a live model!
 

One of the main reasons I recently dropped out of my drawing II class in college was because the teacher only brought out one live model to work from in two semesters! And that model was in direct lighting! So, I set up a friend in the appropriate lighting and started to work from her.
For the most part, I think drawing from a live model is much easier than from photograph, except for the eyes, I have a lot of trouble working them out.

This is what I have so far from my live model. Not very impressive I'm afraid. Since I'm on spring break, she can't sit for me until next Monday. So I'm forced to look at it and it's many flaws (especially her left eye) for another 8 days.

Matthew

Matthew,

I would definitely say that you are on the right track. There may be some small flaws but you have created a solid drawing with convincing light effect and some very sensitive value studies. Go ahead and you will get far.

Allan

I agree that you are on the right track. What I might recommend you do is some large studies of just eyes for a while. Really study the anatomy and work on making the eyeball and skin around it convincingly round. The whites of the eyes are never actually white, except perhaps for the catchlight that is sometimes present.

Thanks a lot for the suggestions! I love doing anatomy studies, but strangely I've never done studies of eyes. I'm sure it will help me a lot!

I've recently been offered to illustrate an anatomy book. Whether I will accept the offer or not, I have not decided. It would be a great opportunity to learn though!

I would have to do part of my work in a cadaver lab. :bewildere This would be a fascinating experience.

Forgive me for wondering off of the topic.

Matthew

The renowned Peggy Baumgaertner spent years doing medical illustration and says it was a tremendous learning experience.

Matthew,

Grab every possilble chance to work from life. Already I see so much progress!

AND grab every possible chance to work from death.

:D You'll be following in the footsteps of da Vinci. Just be sure to wear a mask.

You are right, however dawing from life should be prepared for by copying good drawings so that you can learn line and drawing techniques. That is what you really need, more than drawing from life.