2D Character Critique - Need Help!

[JCDean]

        I have always been an artist. But now I am working to improve my pixel art. A group of friends and I want to create a game. It's a stealth game that plays with shadows and lighting. Of course, I am the lead artist, but we unanimously decided to have the art style Pixelated (heh, funny). I created a concept character I would like to start with and I need help to improve it.

Thanks in advance!

The image (I don't know how to insert an image on here)
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B3wYgTHD0-e3bXNmMGtnQWtacFE/view?usp=sharing

[tsej]

Hi. Welcome to the forums. 
I suggest reading the FAQ and Rules.
You should use the [img] tags for the neat zoom features and overall make the life of people who are helping you easier.
Read more here - http://pixelation.org/pixelation/index.php?topic=4265.msg53086#msg53086 

[MysteryMeat]

If you're going to be playing with shadows and lighting, you're on the right track with his design. Greys and blacks fade well into the background, and the red will serve as a strong visual cue so players don't get confused about where they are while stealthing.
 However, I'd recommend focusing more on giving the character a memorable silhouette, as he is he's just kind of "generic dude in a helmet"

[JCDean]

Thanks for replying, I am just not sure how to keep the figure of the character without using black lines. Any tips?

Here's the image (thanks for the tutorial tsej)

[odedrt9]

It's good to see you use the [img] tags, but you should not upscale your pieces!
This site has a built-in scaling function when you click the image.
Please reupload your piece but not scaled this time so it will be easier to edit and crit