[John Reidy]

Mike,

It may be too late to consider but when I shoot reference photos I like to get additional shots of hands in various positions. I think you have expressed you have done that but my point is the hand on the chair. This hand can be utilized in many different forms and possibly keep the eye from slipping down the painting, giving some interest to the subject and not so much the chair.

All in all I think you have read some excellent advice, especially regarding the background. Keep it in the back.

You have a great start going for you.