As my nine year old son would say about your photos...Way Cool! It definitely helps. When you are painting, do you print off something like the first photo you posted? It really does help just simplifying lights and darks. What program do you use?
I am not sure where to go from the one I have started. It is a commission and I am worried if I cover up her eyes, for example, I will have a hard time getting them right again. I might try working around them...?
Thanks again Karin. I appreciate the time you have devoted to this post!!! These are valuable lessons that I am going to print off and put in my files. Would love to know what program you used.
Thanks, Renee, for your comments too!