Need some help/advice

[Lahree]

Attached is a photo I took of a local legend, Pops Carter. Pops is an 84-year old Blues Man, who has played with the likes of BB King. He is one of the kindest men I have ever met. I would like to draw a picture of Pops and would like to know a good way to crop the photo and also what kind of a background to add. I was thinking of cropping at mid-chest and a blue background ('cause he plays the Blues, man!), but I don't what would look best and I also don't know how the figure should be placed in the drawing (center, off-center, etc.) I would love any help or comments!!
Thanks so much!
Lori
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/17-Apr-2003/18768-pop1image.jpg

[madster]

Lahree,
Here is the link for a wonderful tutorial that does something very similar to what you describe.
http://tiemdesign.com/HOWTO/1999/Painter6Tut/default.htm
It was written for Painter 6, but I think with a little tweaking, you could make it work with photoshop or possibly other apps...
Personally, I would crop a bit off the top, and a bit off the left as you look at it, but I would not take any more off the subject, but if you want a true "portrait," you would crop him at about mid rib cage...

Good luck!

[madster]

Lahree,
This isn't really even close to what you described, but you're right, there is just something about this man, that I wanted to play a little with the picture...Hope you don't mind, maybe it will give you some ideas on how you want to approach your drawing...

Again, good luck! I'm sure you will do a wonderful job!
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/18-Apr-2003/11834-BluesKing.jpg

[Lahree]

No, gosh, I don't mind a bit!! I am grateful! Thanks so much for taking the time to work with this reference pic. This man, Pops, is a truly wonderful man. He can tell stories, whew! And can this man sing the Blues! He is generous, sweet, funny, talented and at 84 years of age, he's a chic magnet! I am 46 and I would not be able to keep up with him. When he is on stage, he face beams! He is having such a wonderful time. It rubs off on his audience. I want to draw this picture to give to him. Thanks again for helping me!!!!
Lori