[Chris Saper]

Dear Lisa,

I am looking at the images in your link, since it is easier to see the detail. You have done a really nice job here! I will try to address the questions you have specifically asked.

Edges. The soft turning edges are nicely rendered, especially the curve of the cheek, and the eye socket. When I look at the detail, the sharpest edge I see is the nostril, which is probably not where you want the viewer's eye to focus. This edge could be softer, and perhaps a little warmer in temperature. Then you will be able to judge whether its value is correct. There are several other edges you may want to consider: the forms of the ear; the edge of the upper lip in light; and the nasal-labial fold, but only slightly.

You might want to consider the effect of adding a bit more value/edge detail to the hand, so that the viewer's eye gets a little exercise.

Reflected light/color. I think the color of the reflected light is excellent, but the value could be dropped just a tiny amount darker, both under the chin and under the nose.These areas will then move right back into the shadow. The cast shadow on the upper lip is rendered rather warm, which I think may have caused you to emphasize the nasal-labial fold. You could cool the temperature a little and still achieve a sense of form without having to delineate it.

Since the ear is so prominent in the view, it is worthwhile to really attend to details about its size, shape and values. Ears are warmer in temperature than the skin on the face. Review your source photo for cast shadows within the forms of the ear. Also look for a fairly strong temperature differential at the tragus of the ear, the little flat c-shaped prominence at the center front of the ear. It's invariably cooler than the forms and shapes of the ear itself.

Good luck, I look forward to seeing more!

P.S. Thanks for the kind words on the book.