As I mentioned earlier, I prefer to mix my greys/blacks rather than use them straight from the tube. In this case, with Fraser, I wanted a warmer grey than the one for Phoebe, but I fear I went too much on the warm side and it looks too brown. I will continue to work with it though rather than change part way through.
Attempting to finesse Fraser's fur was by far the greatest challenge of the two dogs. His muzzle didn't look right until the very end when I added the individual hairs and that made all the difference. It is amazing how a single brush stroke can have such an impact. Take for example the specular reflection in the eyes. So, this is where I left off with the painting yesterday.
After consulting with my right-hand guy (his input is always very insightful) I made Fraser's nose a little larger and worked the left ear until I was finally comfortable with it. The ear was an issue because it was partially cut off in the reference photo.
After a couple of minor changes and fussing, I stepped away for a bit and upon returning I was able to say with confidence that I have completed "painting Phoebe and Fraser".
~CN
P.S. - Something was niggling at me about Phoebe. I looked at her again last night and as much as I didn't want to start fussing, I knew for sure that the darks needed another layer. In the process I also shaded some of the whites. I gave her right eye a little more depth and tweeked some of the white hairs there. I am much happier with the result. and now I can say with confidence that i have finished "painting Phoebe and Fraser". Here is the final painting.
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