STAGE 4 Blending and Light Tones

Check for the tonal contrast in your picture as you add the lightest tones by walking to the other side of the room or taking a digital photograph.

Does the painting look too light? Pastel on light paper often appears very light.

STAGE 5 Background

I am still trying to find the perfect background for a portrait!

The overall tone should not be darker or lighter than the face. The hues are best taken from those used in the rest of the painting. Variation in tone and colour is more naturalistic and also may be used to define light and dark areas of the head. However bear in mind that shadows will be located on the opposite side from the source of light.

STAGE 6 Contours and Detail

Keep as much light tone in the face as possible. Ensure that the most interesting areas contain the highest contrasts i.e. making sure that some of the lightest and darkest tones are in the eyes.

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