How can I steer away from realism (while still abiding its lightning and shading)?

https://preview.redd.it/c84mlgiox4be1.png?width=2000&format=png&auto=webp&s=e0de1b456374f141e872fbb7e82ec8242368bd99

https://preview.redd.it/ubgmxhiox4be1.png?width=2880&format=png&auto=webp&s=27ab2d7495d53e5960c1c3fee6f5e9793fce7483

Basically, I'd like to have a mix between stylized realism and animated(ish) styles? but also, general criticisms on portraits are welcomed!

I made this digitally (autodesk sketchbook), but my goal here was basically to try and "elevate my reference" I'm trying to steer away from basically just making a 1:1 copy of a picture or a scene but I'm still struggling how to get that down