First attempt with PS

I posted this portrait a while back. The BG was way busy, this is my first PS work, any thoughts?? How is the portrait itself? How is the PS work? I know the expression isn't the best, it was candid.

Hi payn817,
I havent seen the other post, but I like the b&w on the near black purple bg.(I hope its not my moniter that makes it look purple). Its a clean simple composition. very nice.
three things I notice, two are ps. The white line on the nose mouth and chin look like digital artifacts, and there are waves from your brush on the far edge of her top. I noticed the white line right away and first thought it was lighting. I had to look a while before I noticed the waves.
I wish I could offer some help, but I'm no good at this myself. The third thing is that it might be better with a little more space at the top, imho. overall though its a very nice pic and good work.
BTW, congrats on your great work and good fortune, I love both the tomb and the lilly,
Mark.

I think I remember this shot.

I think it's a success. The contrast between the front and back of her is a little extreme to me, however. Seems to be a lot of lost detail on the area in the back of her head. But as far as the PS expt, it worked. The crop seems good here also, to me.

Thanks for your replies. This is the first of only two portraits I have attempted. It was candid, and in natural light with no diffuser, or bounce card. Your comments will help greatly in future projects.

MDMC, I am glad that you enjoyed some of my work. Indeed, luck has been with me in this short time.