The human head can be divided and subdivided into seemingly infinite proportions and ratios for the purpose of making the head more understandable and comprehensive.  Here, I’ve taken a few of these basic divisions to show the general size and shape of the head and the placement of the facial features.

Before we begin to look at the different ratios, we must ad the disclaimer that these specific proportions are only for use when looking at the head straight on. Once the head is turned or the angle tilted, foreshortening and perspective need to be applied. Also, the proportions are slightly different for children.

First we’ll look at the overall size of the head.  The human head is one head length tall.  Yes, this is obvious. But we will use this measurement as we go forward.

• The width of the head is ¾ of the height.
• Next we will divide the head length in half. This is where the eyes will be placed.
• The eyes are one eye length apart as well. This means that one eye can fit between the left and right eyes.

Next we move away from the head length and focus on just the face. What’s the difference? Well, the head begins at the top of the skull but the face begins at the hairline. • The face can be easily divided into thirds. The upper third, from the hairline to the brow ridge, is the forehead.
• The middle third is equal to the length of the nose and the ears.

The lower third can itself be divided into thirds to find the proper placement of the mouth.  When divided, the mouth is located at the upper third.

To find where the neck begins, run your finger upward along the outer edge of your own neck.  What do you hit? Yes, your ear. The neck begins at the ears and continues down to the rest of the body.

All of these proportions should bring up one question: if everyone’s facial proportions are exactly the same, why don’t we all look the same?

There is remarkably little difference in cranial and facial proportions in humans, regardless of gender and race. However, there are very minor differences in human facial proportions between people which individualize them. But the proportions that I have discussed here are a good guide for any adult human head and face.