As is the first is better. Both can be improved by fine tuning. The second needs the most work because the background and also the rock on the left are way too light and draw our attention from the bear. I would also gray out some of the background on the first image.
I, too, prefer the first. The tighter crop gives more for the eye to work with and the lighting is a bit moodier, fitting the mood of the bear. I'm fairly happy with it, although surely improvements can be made.
The second one is flatter, and has both more monotony (wall of gray to the left) and distractions (light at the top). I'll probably increase the contrast on the lower end and crop in a bit tighter to get rid of the stuff at the top.
I was mainly focusing on demonstrating tonality and sharpness in these. The first definitely wins on both fronts there, I think.
Welcome.
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Your images:
Both are very nice images, very good conversions.
First for me. I like tight crops. You could loosen it slightly but it works. Excellent detail, expressions in both.
Second feels like it would improve with less on the left where there really isnt much to offer. Maybe eliminate about half of the distance between the frame edge and the face. I agree with toning down the brightness as well. A bit of vignetting would further bring the eye in, reduce some brightness in the corners.
Finally, I havent checked, but do you have a true black point in both?
