Portrait drawing

[Jwalk]

Hello here is another portrait I did from reference around 5 hrs. Hb - 2b - 6b. No blend stick , just eraser and pencil

I feel there is to many areas that have to much contrast it doesnt blend nicely.

[CarlOwen]

Thank you for posting. You have skills. I suggest you look at your light source, then the dark areas on the light side of the face. On the darkened side of the face the shadows need to be at least as dark as the shadows on the light side of the face. And, if you can, make it just a little bit darker. Personally, I would not even attempt to blend/soften anything. You have good characterization that I believe would be ruined by any attempt at blending.