New at this black and white thing

[MechanicalClone]

Actually... new at photography in general....

I wanted to know if you guys think that I'm pushing it to much in post processing... I think I am but I kind of like it...

 

[The_Traveler]

yes, imo waaay over processed.
you are just going through a stage.
virtually all novices discover they can do something and then do it all the time and way too much - sort of like when little boy babies discover their penis and won't leave it alone.
As you get more experienced your tastes will mature and you'll stop tugging.

 

[MechanicalClone]

I am now a grown man, but I still don't leave it alone.

I get what you are saying.

 

[Bender]

The brightest part of the photo will always draw attention.
In this case, the rather unpleasant highlights in the background dominate the composition.
Not sure that was the effect you were going for.

And yes, processing is not really working here either. The edge vignetting and what appears to be over-sharpening is not helpful.

Don't be discouraged though. Keep trying. The learning curve is steep, but the payback is worth the time.

 

[MechanicalClone]

The sun was actually behind those leafs, it bugs me as well. As for the edge vignetting, that's my bad... I agree that it does not work at all.

As for the "over sharpening", I was actually going for that, kind of an cartoony CGI look. I'm just playing here...

I won't get discouraged, don't worry ... I posted it here knowing full well that you guys would destroy my picture... that's a good thing.

 

[Msteelio91]

Cool but definitely over done, heavy vig too