Photo or life?
 

was it done from a photo or from life?

How long did she sit for you? ;) Very nice, Dan.

Garth

I like the sculptural look and intense reflected light. Lovely head.

Photo or life? I prefer life and do my best to work from life as much as possible. My sketch book is a constant companion and is in constant use.
As per your question whether your drawing was done from a photo or life is a tough one or is it? If you wish a honest answer then this is what I see. I personally do not think it was done from life. If it was, then your proportions are not in line and your values are not rendered accurately.

As is often the case in the photo-versus-life escapade, it

It has been done from a photo because of the intense area of light on the left hand side of the background - the intensity and shape of that background light is what a flash from a camera does.

Photo

Dan,
I could believe that it was done from life because of the relaxed expression of a long held pose, it's easy to sit in that pose for longer periods.
If it is made from life I would say that you have treated it much like a typical photo copyist.

I second Mischa's words.

Nice work.

Lettermen
 

Let's see if I can make this a little easier, and lighten the mood.

Is this painting from life or from a photo, keep in mind Dave's from Connecticut and so am I.