[Anthis]

Some quick ones for the last couple;

cyl1981 - I love the feel of yours. Think you're missing some colour and contrast variation in the lion's head. Though that may be because you're aiming for a setting and surroundings like you have in the reference portrait. I do think that he could use just a little more punch though, as the armour is drawing a lot of focus away from him.

JohnSilva - Promising! Coat looks a bit flabby, you should get it right while you still can! Think you picked a tough portrait image with very strong light. Since it's black/white you may need to fill in some blanks, like the light source's colour. Great pose and expression already!

black_rain6 - You got great reference, and a humorous image too. I like how the skin actually 'feels' like horse skin. Not sure how you pulled that off. Hope you still have some time to tinker with this one. Some areas (manes, ears, hoof, clothes) could use some polish. Shame to hear about photoshop. Also; adding one or two of those typical veins on the head can really add some nice detail. Also presents to opportunity to add even more shape to the head.