Creating a lifelike portrait or figurative sculpture requires careful planning and execution. Here are the most important considerations for achieving stunning results:

1. Material Selection: Choose the right medium—wood, stone, or clay—based on texture, durability, and carving ease. Hardwoods like walnut offer fine detail, while softer stones like alabaster are ideal for beginners.

2. Anatomical Accuracy: Study proportions, muscle structure, and facial features to ensure realism. Reference sketches or 3D models can help maintain correct dimensions.

3. Tool Mastery: Use specialized chisels, gouges, and rasps for detailing. Sharp tools prevent material splintering and allow smoother finishes.

4. Expression and Emotion: Capture the subject’s personality through subtle nuances—eye shape, lip curvature, or posture—to evoke emotion.

5. Light and Shadow: Plan how light interacts with the sculpture’s contours. Deep cuts create shadows, while polished surfaces reflect highlights.

6. Patience and Practice: Carving is iterative. Regularly step back to assess proportions and refine details gradually.

By focusing on these elements, artists can craft expressive, dynamic pieces that resonate with viewers. Whether working in wood or stone, mastering these fundamentals elevates figurative carving to an art form.