Step-by-Step Guide: How to Draw a Betta Fish

This image provides a simplified tutorial for drawing a betta fish, focusing on its flowing fins, teardrop-shaped body, and intricate scales. Below is a refined, step-by-step breakdown with clear instructions and tips for each stage.

1. Basic Body Shape

Teardrop Form: Draw a sideways teardrop (wider at the head, tapering to the tail).
Light Sketching: Use faint lines for easy adjustments.
Key Features:
- Gill & Jaw: Single curved lines (like parentheses) near the head.
- Eye: Small circle near the front, with a slight upturn for the nose.
- Side Fin: A short curved line behind the gill.

2. Flowing Fins

Long, Sweeping Curves:
- Dorsal Fin (Top): Wavy line from head to tail.
- Tail Fin: Exaggerated, fan-like curves (think “swooshing” motion).
- Ventral Fins (Bottom): Delicate, trailing lines.
Zig-Zag Edges: Add subtle spikes along fin edges for realism.

3. Scales & Texture

Guidelines First:
- Draw 6 light, parallel curves from head to tail to align scales.
Scaling Technique:
- Work top to bottom in even rows.
- Each scale = a tiny “U” shape. Overlap slightly for a 3D effect.
Bony Ridges (Fins):
- Place evenly spaced dots along the fin’s leading edge.
- Connect dots with smooth curves following the fin’s flow.

4. Refinement & Details

Pressure Control: Darken outlines of body/fins, keeping scales subtle.
Movement Tips:
- Use longer curves for fins to imply water motion.
- Add light shading under the body for depth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowded Scales: Less is more—space them evenly.
Stiff Fins: Let curves flow organically (practice “S” shapes).
Uneven Symmetry: Use guidelines to balance fins on both sides.

Artistic Applications

Watercolor: Layer translucent fins over bold body colors.
Ink Drawing: Emphasize line weight (thicker outlines, thin fin details).

Need a Visual Demo? I can sketch this process digitally or suggest betta fish references for inspiration! Let me know how you’d like to proceed. 🎨

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