Grayscale Study

Reference image used for Exercise

Tracing of reference image

Using a square brush I applied a rough background

Utilizing the same square brush I began roughly placing some value, attempting to target the darker areas of the image first.

Trying to focus on the background of the image and adding more value to the portrait.
Using the eyedropper tool (holding option while on the brush tool)
I can quickly sample various shades and attempt to blend light and dark areas.

Refining and trying to tighten up edges.

Turned off the line work layer and continued to refine the image, switching
sometimes to a fine round brush zooming in and trying to get some areas sharper.

Final image of of the grayscale exercise.