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Rethink
Jean, what a handsome, dynamic subject, however I see real problems with your reference.
A. If you squint you will see that the major focus of this picture is his light shirt.
B. He has very dark skin and much of what you have photographed has him in shadow. This does not allow you to use any of the middle tones which would help with the values in your composition and his form.
C. Such a dynamic personage needs to be looking directly at the viewer, this would increase the power of the portrait. Also there would be some lights in his eyes to reference the light shirt.
D. There has to be more consideration of the design of the portrait. He is slumped and the picture behind him is not artfully placed.
E. Consider some more interesting motif or shape behind him that would give a clue to his nature or leave it out entirely.
F. Velasquez did a beautiful portrait of a black man, it has a wonderful variety of skintones not available to you in your photo.
G. You have a wonderful subject and opportunity to a wonderful painting, see if you can get him to sit again.
H. Check out some of the tips posted on this Forum that will help you with the skills to be able to photo this subject.
I. My suggestion for starters, is to have him face the light instead of away from him. Use a silver reflector to lighten up the shadow areas.
Sincerely,
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