Mischa,

Even though the lighting isn't ideal, at least it is directional and interesting.

I'll see how this looks when I post it, but I tinkered in Photoshop with Image-adjust-levels to gain a full value range, then with image-adjust-photofilter-blue to try to compensate for the white balance problem in the source photo.

I look forward to seeing this painting as it happens, it is more like a demo-in-progress:)

Mischa, the dark shadows are your anchors, without which you will drift around in the current or with the wind, as will your viewers.

You MUST not be afraid to go deeply into the dark shadows -- or at least the dark accents.

If colorless shadows are your concern, that's a different matter -- there are thousands of beautiful ways to paint dark mysteries. But don't shy away from the "value" of shadow.

It IS an accent, though, not the main feature. Don't overdo it, either.

Chris, thank you! When I was asked to do a portrait of the professor I had no idea that it would be a surprise. Boy was I a surprised! I explained that I need to take the photos but was discouraged. The professor is to retire in march and he is already cleaning. So, the staff want this to be a surprise.

I guess I was spoiled at the academy with ideal settings and lighting. I spent hours in Photoshop trying to figure out how to make this image come to life. Than I thought to trouble you my new found friends and ask for some help. I truly appreciate everyone

Yummy blue highlights!

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Ok, I did push the shadows dark but wiped it off. I would love to do this the Caravaggio look but I need to have this one close to the executive look.

This is what is done so far. The background, blocked in the big shapes, attempted to establish a natural skin hue and experimented with keeping the values in a day time setting, with a single light source.

Please feel free to critique and give suggestions (I do not mind if you make marks or adjustment on the image).

Thank you ever so much!
mischa

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Close-up

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Closer yet