A pencil portrait can emphasize different aspects of a reference depending on the requested treatment. Explain whether the expression, fine features or wider scene is your priority, then compare examples with a similar composition.
Inspect the features at the original resolution
Check the eyes, nose and mouth in the original photograph. Enlarging a small screenshot does not supply detail that was missing from the file. If an older photograph is the only reference, share it first and ask what can be interpreted from it before setting expectations.
Compare line and shading
In the pencil gallery, look at the relationship between outlines, shaded areas and the background. Identify the treatment you prefer in a specific example. Compare charcoal examples if you are considering a different monochrome finish.
Preserve the intended expression
A second photograph can clarify a feature but may show a different expression. State which image should guide the final result. For combined family photographs, explain who should appear together and how large each person should be relative to the others.
Select a workable composition
A close-up gives a face more room than a full scene at the same finished size. Review pencil pricing while deciding how many subjects and background elements to include. The medium comparison supports that choice, and the approval process explains the next steps. Contact the team if your main reference is incomplete.