Portrait for critique 20x16 o/c
 

portrait for critique 20x16 o/c

I love the expression on the child's face. The drawing looks good but you may check to see if the childs left eye is onto the nose space, also double check the nostril openings for symmetry. I like the values of the background to the head contrasting light and dark and shadow and light. But I think the contrast from the top of the painting to the lower shadow area is too much. Also check the shirt, the arm areas look large and chest area small, if the child could have a different shirt to show his neck and shoulders better would be nicer.

Your colors look great but it is hard to tell with the glare from the varnish on the painting. Next time try taking your pictures before you varnish your painting to eliminate some of that glare. What I have just stated is opinion and you can agree or disagree with what you wish, I admire you for your willingness to be critiqued in this way. I believe you will become a better portrait artist and more quickly for your courage and determination.

Would I be correct in assuming that you've got light reflections going on that are fading out the colors and shadows in the face and eyes?

Corrections made
 

Daniel, I am grateful for your critique. The issue with the eye and nose turned out to be the shadow of the left eye socket. The shadow was pushed too far into the nose space. I also corrected the nostrils.

Thanks so much for your insight.

Paul