Hmmm, I don't find anything wrong of using a one-click effect in photoshop or whatever program you've used, but personally I would like to see the original, I think the photo has potential to be good, but the effect in my personal opinion has ruined the photo.
Nice pencil effect pal, it looks real pencil art. I have used it once in the photoshop so I know how nice the effect is look. Though it is automatic effect by the software but still it looks like real.
I think this is like Apple and Oranges. You are trying to achieve something different. It is not about one is better than the other. Thats what I think. People seem to miss the point sometimes when it comes to filters. For example.. you are trying to use it as illustrator on a children book.. still think original is better?