Technique: H graphite pencil on 110gsm paper

Process: I started all of the drawings with a very light outline (measured with a ruler to maintain consistency) which I erased where needed. Since the first image was of the banana while fairly fresh, I didn't need to include too much detail.

Reflection: there isn't a lot of contrast in this image which I think I improve up later, and there are some small issues with the blending and the edges, since I haven't drawn traditionally in a while. Overall, it's just a bit bland/boring, but it is just a banana so what can you do?

Technique: H and 4B graphite pencil on 110gsm paper

Process: for this image I approached it basically the same way as the first one, but added the slight bruising and little imperfections that had appeared on the banana at this point. I also started using a 4B pencil to add darker tones.

Reflection: this one is still rather simple, but the addition of the darker tone of the 4B pencil added a little bit more contrast to the drawing. I feel that the edges of this one are an improvement from the previous, with less of an actual outline and more of an implied edge.

Technique: H and 4B graphite pencil on 110gsm paper

Process: I started adding darker tones much earlier in the process for this one, as at this point the banana was as ripe as I wanted it to be (I don't care for overly-ripe fruit). 

Reflection: while I like that the darker tones added a lot more contrast to this one, and the bruises and imperfections made the image much more visually interesting, I think the blending isn't as good.

Technique: H and 4B graphite pencil on 110gsm paper

Process: as this image had a totally different outline from the previous drawings, I spent more time at the beginning planning out the curves of the peel. I then added in the details and shading with the H pencil first, and then the 4B. Finally I had to erase some smudging around the banana as I was a little messy with it this time.

Reflection: I definitely enjoyed making this one the most and I find it the most visually interesting as it shows both the inside and the peel. Although, I think there could be more definition/shading, especially within the inside of the banana.

Technique: H and 4B graphite pencil on 110gsm paper

Process: This final illustration began with a much more simple outline, so I was able to quickly move onto the shading and imperfections. I used the 4B pencil the most in this drawing, and finely sharpened it at the end to add small, darker details.

Reflection: I think this is the weakest of the images, and I have difficulty differentiating between the different planes of the peel. I also worry that this image is far darker than the previous illustrations, and will stand out too much. However at this point, I was glad to be done drawing this banana, even if it tasted pretty good. 

Conclusion: I don't want to look at another banana for a very, very long time... However, I think that although I definitely prefer digital, I would like to do more pencil drawing from now on, at least while sketching.