Is this B&W too high contrast?

[caseysrt]

 

[Derrel]

That level of contrast does not seem to me to advance the artistic or pictorial appeal of the image...it looks too chalky for a picture of a sweet little girl.

 

[caseysrt]

Thanks for the quick reply. What changes would you make? I'm using LR 4 so I can apply your feedback and re-post for review.

 

[Sw1tchFX]

Yes, it is too much.

There's nothing wrong with high contrast, but half the subjects face is paper white, completely devoid of detail. 254 is bright, 255 is white.

 

[Alex_B]

Technically, for the standard client, it will be to white with a lack of detail. but if this is for an arts project with some idea behind it being so blown out, it could be ok. since I do not know what you wanted to achieve, I cannot judge.

 

[caseysrt]

I lowered the whites with no other changes, what about this version?

 

[BlackSheep]

I think the new version is better in terms of the whites.
Assuming that this is meant to be a regular portrait (not for an arts project as Alex mentioned earlier), I personally would also like to see a bit more detail with her hair, it's disappearing into the background.

 

[caseysrt]

Round three ... I used the adjustment brush to increase the exposure of her hair without trying to make it look fake. Also soften the skin a little.

 

[Chris R]

I like the 2nd pic you posted the best... It's not jaw droppingly great but overall it's a very respectable photo.