Fish are fascinating creatures to draw, thanks to their diverse shapes, colors, and patterns. Whether you’re sketching a sleek and agile predator or a whimsical, colorful reef-dweller, drawing different types of fish allows for endless creative exploration. In this blog post, I’ll guide you through the process of drawing different fish varieties, using some simple steps that will bring your underwater world to life. Let’s dive in!
1. Start with Basic Shapes
The foundation of any fish drawing begins with basic shapes. For example:
- A round body for fishes like pufferfish or discus (as seen in the image above, a vibrant depiction of a rounded, colorful fish).
- An oval or elongated shape works well for species like goldfish or tuna.
- For flatfish, such as flounders, use an oval and taper the body to one side.
Start lightly sketching the body shape that fits the fish you’re drawing, allowing room for modifications.
2. Add Fins and Tail
Fins and tails are what make fish unique! Here’s how to approach them:
- Dorsal fins (on the top of the fish): Often triangular or spiked in predators like sharks.
- Pectoral fins (on the sides): These can be fan-shaped or streamlined, depending on the species.
- Tail fins (caudal fin): Some have forked tails (like tuna), while others, like the clownfish, have rounded, smaller tails.
In the fish from the image above, notice how the tail is softly tapered with bright color variations. Try to mimic such vivid, organic shapes in your designs.
3. Eyes and Mouth Details
Fish eyes tend to be large and set toward the front of their heads. Their mouth shape varies depending on the species:
- Predatory fish may have a forward-facing mouth with sharp teeth.
- Bottom-feeders might have a downward-facing mouth.
- In simpler species like goldfish, you can create an almost smiling curve for the mouth.
In our example above, the fish has a slightly exaggerated, almost cartoon-like eye, giving it a more animated appearance. You can play with eye size to make your fish more realistic or stylized.
4. Add Scale Patterns
This is where you can get creative! Fish scales can range from tiny overlapping shapes to bold patterns. Use wavy lines or short strokes for a detailed, textured look, especially if you're drawing a vibrant fish like a discus or parrotfish.
- Use small crescent shapes for intricate, detailed scales.
- For smoother skin (like that of a shark), keep your lines minimal.
The fish in the image above showcases a mosaic of irregular, colorful patches, which add to its distinct look. Feel free to use color and pattern variations to create a fish that stands out.
5. Experiment with Colors
Fish are known for their vibrant hues. Use your imagination or look up references for realistic coloration. You could experiment with:
- Bright yellows, oranges, and reds for tropical reef fish like clownfish.
- Deep blues and greens for more exotic or predatory species.
The example above shows a lovely blend of oranges, yellows, and purples, giving the fish a vivid, eye-catching appearance. You can use a mix of markers, colored pencils, or watercolors to achieve this effect.
6. Create the Underwater Background
Once you’re happy with your fish, consider adding a background to immerse it in its habitat. Soft, wavy lines in shades of blue for water or rocks, coral, or seaweed can provide context and make your fish feel at home. Keep it light and unobtrusive, as the focus should remain on the fish itself.
In Conclusion:
Drawing different types of fish is not only a fun exercise but also a great way to explore different artistic styles, patterns, and colors. The key to a great fish drawing is experimenting with shapes, textures, and colors to bring your underwater world to life. Whether you aim for realism or a more abstract, colorful style like the fish in the image above, there’s no wrong way to draw these wonderful creatures. Grab your pencils, and let’s dive into your next fish drawing adventure
