Which is the Better Photo?

[bunadski]

Happy weekend guys!

I have this shot of Bantay Abot Cave in Pagudpud, Philippines. I was playing with its contrast during PP, and I came up with two versions which I found myself having difficulty choosing which is better.

This is the more contrasty version. I love the colors in this one.


Bantay Abot Cave by bunadski, on Flickr


This is the other version. I love the overall feel of the photo and it better represents the brightness of the actual scene. However, its colors are not as appealing to me as the first one.


Bantay Abot Cave by bunadski, on Flickr


Which do you guys think is the better version? I'd really appreciate your insights. Thanks!

 

[Josh66]

I like the sky of the first one, but the shadow detail of the second one.

Shouldn't be too difficult to get the best of both into one photo...

 

[bunadski]

I like the sky of the first one, but the shadow detail of the second one.

Shouldn't be too difficult to get the best of both into one photo...

Thanks. I'm trying not to do selective contrast adjustment (i.e. separate adjustments for sky and subject/foreground). I'll see if I can improve the shadows of the first one without affecting the sky using global adjustments. I still such as PS. :meh:
Thanks again!

 

[PropilotBW]

I think there's a lot of detail lost from the shadows on the first, particularly on the cave rock. I like being able to see the trees and land on the cave rock.

 

[Matt Tilghman]

Like them both a lot. I agree with Josh, but if I had to pick between the two as is, I'd pick #1

 

[Ysarex89 83]

I think it's an excellent photo and I have to second Josh's observation that you should combine the best aspects of both. Why not? You responded that you're trying not to do selective contrast adjustments? I think you should make the most effective image possible. Combine the more open shadows of the second with the higher contrast and more saturated colors in the midtones and highlights of the first.

Joe

 

[MetroRuss]

Hi Bunadski,

I visited your flickr site and really liked your phots.

 

[bunadski]

Thanks for your inputs guys, here's the improved version (i hope)


Bantay Abot Cave by bunadski, on Flickr

Hi Bunadski,

I visited your flickr site and really liked your phots.

Thanks a lot!