how the hell do i delete this thread?...
well...
A quick crit:
At least while you're beginning, for your studies of single objects (i.e. not environments, but characters and creatures and figures and objects) you may wish to find some reference with a single light source. It's easier to understand and you'll pick it up more quickly. Also try spending more time on one of your studies until you're confident you can't take it any further - just so you get to understand what digital brushes can do in terms of finishing a piece.
Cheers!