So, the Stephen Hart in-an-hour I tried a few weeks ago...have worked on it a wee bit more. Unfortunately, I've now reached the point where the paper is refusing any more layers of pastel so I have to admit defeat, but at least I had a try. More like him but not quite there yet. I really should stop picking images with stubble!
Amazing how the tone of the natural light can make such a huge difference with the photo. Last time the colours came across as much more vivid (think it was blazing sunshine through the window when I was taking photos). In real life, that background is vivid yellow, and the skin tones are much more varied. Have taken a whole pile of photos trying to get one that looks 'realistic' but it's not happening. Grrr...
Edited later: And just took this one 'cause the sun is shining in the window! Now THAT'S a bit more like the real life colours...and I know most folks will think 'what's she wittering on about, they look the same' but honest, guv, there's a difference. *g*