When I show someone a photo or photos I've taken that I like or are important to me I find I want to know what entered the person's mind in the first 3 seconds they look at it. I prefer they keep the description to a few words or maybe a couple simple phrases. Don't know why, I just do. Maybe I want to know what my photos make them feel. Anyway, I tell you this so my comments may make more sense. And of course I know I offer unsolicited opinion so hey, I know I'm not a pro.
The first one the words strength, poise and intelligence came to mind.
With the second one equal amounts of "Come here" and "Stay away" came to mind.
IMHO the lighting in the first pic is perfect. Good choice for avatar. My hat's off to you, my self portraits never come out right. They always come out looking way too much like the guy I see in the mirror.