Planning: Round 2

On reassessment I went back to posing with a much simpler set of requirements. The characters was standing, ready to lift the barrel but still casual and relaxed, as though work had only momentarily halted to chat. The character then double takes on the barrel, realising he is at work and lifts the barrel, coming slightly off balance and catching himself on the back foot. This felt like a much more natural way in which to conduct a conversation and was definitely a step in the right direction.