Shadow detail or contrast ... your opinion wanted

[Ozzie_Traveller]

G'day all

One of many days when we were indoors and the outdoors was not all that photographically exciting ... so I played with some editing PP
So now-- your thoughts please

1)- as seen, as normally shot


exif- Panny FZ-300; 1/1600s x F6,3; ISO-100; Lens at 14x zoom / 350mm [FFequiv]

2)- modified following Isac's suggestions to show shadow detail


As always, feedback welcome
Phil

[Grumpy John]

Maybe just enough to show the "hotel" signage, but I'm fine with the rest being black. For me, it's sometimes about the light and shade and less about the detail.

[Ozzie_Traveller]

Hi GJ ... I like your suggestion re- the sign, maybe I'll play with it a bit more
Phi

[eaglem]

The top shot is very abstract and likeable.

[Grumpy John]

I agree totally.

[Ozzie_Traveller]

Yes -- #1 is the way I prefer it, stark and bold
Phil

[wigz]

First is dramatic with strong shapes, second is just a part of a building. Sometimes you want the dark shadows.

[HansE]

Could be either. Depends on what you wish to convey.

[Ozzie_Traveller]

Hi GJ ..... how's this? PSE- lighten shadows @+3 ... darken hilights @ +20
Phil

[Grumpy John]

I like the shading you have on the Hotel sign, but personally I would have left the shadows darker. For me the biggest issue is the trees in the lower left, they take away from (soften) the bold lines of the building. A wrought iron fence in place of the tree would do the trick.