This video demonstrates the process of painting the nose in watercolor, as part of Karen Schaaf’s portrait workshop training series.

The nose should be suggested through soft value transitions, not hard outlines. Begin at the bridge between the eyes and work your way down toward the mouth so the feature stays integrated with the structure of the face.

Be careful not to over-darken the nostrils—they are still flesh-toned forms within shadow and should blend naturally into the surrounding area.

In most faces, the tip of the nose projects slightly forward from the bridge. A small touch of warm color at the tip can help bring this area forward and create a sense of dimension.