Well, it was a challenge this time. I know the image looks rather like a picture than a photo now but that was the plan. Read about the difficulties I was faced with and how I got over them. MORE DETAILS HERE

Well, it was a challenge this time. I know the image looks rather like a picture than a photo now but that was the plan. I have chosen to work with a really badly exposed file. It was actually a test photo made at the beginning of the shoot. However, I liked it the most. While brightening the face I have found out that the most of the crucial details are gone. So I drew the skin texture and some eye and hair bits by hand. Finally, I couldn't quite figure out how the neck should look like so I googled it and found an image to use as a reference. You would probably see some similarities in lightnings. 

One question to you all. I know, I'm still using the mouse.-)) Although, I have a wonderful WACOM tablet I still couldn't force myself to get into using it. How far can the tablet extend the retouching skills? Is it really that helpful? Can anyone give me the advice on how to approach it the best way? The only thing which is difficult for me to accept in my old tabled is that you're drawing on the table but have to look at the monitor. Shall I get a more up-to-date one or get used to the one I own? My model INTUOS 3 is actually quite good and has a working area of A4(!).