Averted gaze

Pupils turn away from the front, carrying the face's attention sideways or out of frame.

Visual traits

• Side-directed pupils
• Visible eye area
• Off-center focus

Expected changes

• Pupils are more likely to turn sideways
• The face's attention is more likely to leave the front

Definition

An averted gaze directs the eyes to the side or another target instead of forward or at a counterpart. It does not determine head or body orientation, emotion, or relationship.

In more detail

Where eyes and pupils are visible, the direction leads attention away from the center or toward another place. It may suggest reflection, hesitation, or distraction, without fixing an emotion. It is distinct from closed eyes and a gaze directly into the camera.

Includes

• Eyes directed sideways or out of frame
• A person or animal with a legible focus

Excludes

• Closed eyes
• A direct gaze into the camera
• A turned head where the eyes cannot be seen

What this does not imply

• A specific emotion
• A fully turned face or body
• Rejection of another person

Variability

The focus may be a person or object in or outside the frame. Keep eyes unobscured.

Usage

• Keep pupil direction readable

Distinguish similar expressions

• Specify body orientation separately

Typical uses

• Direct a subject's attention out of frame
• Create a portrait without a frontal gaze

Possible failure modes

• Pupils face forward
• Eyes are hidden
• Eyes become closed