Charcaol over Pencil?

[Pencil Soldier]

Ive noticed, in the life drawing forum especialy, that many people use charcoal or charcoal pencils. What bnifits do tehse have over normal, plain old penicl?

[F3nix]

I always liked charcoal because of its softer texture, and the feel of it. Perhaps, it's just a trend that was set but, it's a functional trend. Charcoal works faster on large canvas then say...a pencil. Also, you have more control over varying stroke width, weight and texture.

[AnarchyAo2]

Charcoal is a good for sketches, because its hard to erase so your not as focused on perfection. And its fun to do gesture drawings with.

[jelanen]

When I first used charcoal, I hated it. I didn't understand building up the color and what not. Now, that I get it..I like charcoal bunches. It is a bit harder to get used to then pencil but it is fun stuff. Messy too! I like smearing charcoal on my face and go about attacking people with charcoal covered hands! Muhaha!

[LiL QoH]

I like charcoal cuz its easier to shade larger areas, and you can vary the width of your stroke much easier