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Transparencies
I have occasionally used computer-generated inkjet transparencies to double check my drawing/proportions and find it a very helpful aid. I use this device after years of life drawing training and practice. I still attend a local figure workshop to keep my hand and eye able, and cannot stress too strongly the need to develop this skill. It will help you learn what lies behind the shadows, hair, clothing, etc., and to better understand how they connect and how to capture those same forms in your composition.
Using conventional or digital photographs which I then scan and edit for my reference material, I begin my freehand drawing/layout on canvas until I am pleased with the composition, proportions, sizes, and the spirit of the painting. At this point I create a very high contrast black and white of the face in Photoshop and save it at the same size as the canvas drawing. From this file I make a black print on ink jet transparency film. 3M, among others, makes this film for use with overhead projectors. You can now overlay this film to your drawing to make certain that you have not made critical drawing errors. Don't be tempted to project the drawing to begin with as this will yield a static copy that even the most seasoned pro would avoid.
You have made some good corrections and have done a good job with a very difficult photograph. I can't imagine any circumstances under which I would tackle a portrait with the lighting/shadows you are working with. I would suggest that you lighten the upper lip and show more of its form. Otherwise it adds to the hardness/aging of the subject.
I attended a computer graphics workshop outside of Brussells and will never forget my visit to Brugge on our free weekend, and now go out of my way to find Belgium beers.
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