Portrait step by step

I took photos at each stage of the portrait process.
I started in pencil, making sure I get all the important details.

Then I block it all in, in a dark shade.

After that I am ready for color. I spend a little time in the beginning to mix up some basic skin tones. I can always tweak them a little if they are not just right.

After a few hours it's good to step away from your work. It gives the oil paint a little time to set up. Everything looks better in the morning anyway!