Facial expression s in more detail:

i found a really good site which showed exactly how to draw various facial expressions and how each feature on the face reacts to another being moved. This is really good in giving me a good idea of how to achieve various emotions for my character just through the face alone. i didn't realize the complexity of how each feature on the face reacts with one another to produce the desired emotion. its defiantly a side to animation which you don't first take on board.

Here are some sketches which show various facial expressions in detail.

Happy Ecstatic content Sad

1. The Eyes – Probably the most important feature for evoking a clear emotion. Utilize the eyelids and eyebrows to create your effect.

2. The Cheeks – The way they squash and stretch will affect the look and position of the eyes.

3. The Mouth – The shape of the mouth is also very important. It affects how the cheeks move and the shape of the entire face.

• Note that when you move the shape and position of one feature, it affects everything else. Nothing stands completely on its own.
• For a stronger drawing and character, really push the expression. Instead of simply drawing a happy person, draw one that is ecstatic; instead of drawing an angry person, draw a furious one.
• Have a mirror nearby. When I’m trying to nail down an expression, I often find my own face making weird movements unconsciously. It can make for good reference.

Here are a few more facial expressions which are often very hard to describe without the aid of a drawing or audio explanation.

Bored Annoyed Surprised Tired

this article has really helped me get a better understanding of how the features of the face really interact to produce the expressions on our faces. i actually had no idea how important the eyes are in helping get across a characters feelings on screen and has defiantly given me a much more detailed understanding of how the face works.