Dangs your model is looking very realistic, there is something in the expression being relaxed that feels very life like. As Spikey said, I think that course can help you achieve your hair goal. From what I can tell you need a more manual approach and less fiddling with the settings.
Also your real life picture is too awesome, straight out of a lord of the rings character. I bet Gandalf would be like, Thorin, I got an extra companion for you, off you go Bilbo.
