Describing Facial Expressions

[GinnyPPC]

Does anyone know of a good site or article that can help a new author like me learn to how to convey a character's facial expressions? So much can be said nonverbally with a wrinkle of a lip, a scrunch of the nose, etc. I think if it is done right, it can convey so much emotion and meaning in a work.

It is something I don't think I convey well, even thought I can see the character's expression in my mind. I want to get better at this.

Thanks in advance for any tips or guidance.

Ginny

 

[NotWise]

Does anyone know of a good site or article that can help a new author like me learn to how to convey a character's facial expressions? So much can be said nonverbally with a wrinkle of a lip, a scrunch of the nose, etc. I think if it is done right, it can convey so much emotion and meaning in a work.

It is something I don't think I convey well, even thought I can see the character's expression in my mind. I want to get better at this.

Thanks in advance for any tips or guidance.

Ginny

I think it was Bramblethorn who offered the Body Language Cheat Sheet. It covers facial expressions as well as other postures and gestures.

 

[Privates1stClass]

Does anyone know of a good site or article that can help a new author like me learn to how to convey a character's facial expressions?

Here are a couple links you might try:
https://www.bryndonovan.com/2015/04/05/master-list-of-facial-expressions/
https://kathysteinemann.com/Musings/expressions/

 

[GinnyPPC]

Thanks for the quick replies!

 

[SimonDoom]

I believe a key to doing this, as for doing anything in writing, is to focus on the verb. Not the adjective. Not the noun. Think of a way to describe what you want to describe in an active way. Don't describe the face as looking a certain way. Write it as doing something.

 

[BuckyDuckman]

I believe a key to doing this, as for doing anything in writing, is to focus on the verb. Not the adjective. Not the noun. Think of a way to describe what you want to describe in an active way. Don't describe the face as looking a certain way. Write it as doing something.

With a scowl on my lips and a furrowed brow, I'm turning my nose up at this suggestion.

No, wait. I actually like it a lot! So let me raise my eyebrows and give you a broad smile right before I start laughing.

Seriously, though - is that what you meant? I feel like I got it backward.