A first for me....what/which do you prefer please...

[RayGuselli]

Had to give it a try...first go a lot to learn but would like your thoughts please....
First one is my smudge painting...
Second one is the same painting with some Topaz Impression.....
Any preferences, help and/or advice please...
Thanks
Ray


https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5603/15623121601_f7fd3de48e_b.jpg


https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3952/15440204350_ce044aa526_h.jpg

 

[Charlie_Boy]

I really like both of course. I do like the Impression better but only because it is a bit softer and makes her face more appealing.

 

[Growltiger]

I prefer the second because it is kinder. But I'm sure your smudge could have softened the lines if you had wished. So it really depends on what you are looking for.

 

[57corvette]

I think the second one is softer and more natural .....but I like the color of the first one better. Your smudge looks more detailed and done by hand. Guess it depends on what you're looking for. Both are very nice.

 

[RayGuselli]

Many thanks for the feedback...I think it is going to be a case of experiment with this and see what happens...will try another and make the original less sharp perhaps...

Best wishes and thanks for the helpful comments...

Ray

 

[OHcorgis]

I like the second one also. I like the softer look, which you can get with smudge I think. Looks like fun.

 

[Butlerkid]

Another vote for the second.....it is softer and more natural. Color seems fine in both, at least to me.

 

[web52]

My first reaction was to the strong lines around the eyes. I think they can be softened without making her look surprised or -- -- yes, a little bit angry. I think that's the feeling I got when I first saw the larger-sized ones. (startled? surprised? not happy with what annoyed her or interrupted her??)
Sharpness in eyes can end at the eyelashes and then artistic mercy can start.

just an opinion of a smudger far less talented than you.

 

[RayGuselli]

Many thanks for the helpful replies...always value opinions from friends here....thanks very much

Best wishes

Ray

 

[greyflash]

Both are excellent but like the others I give the edge to the second one.

 

[Chris101]

I'm gonna buck the trend here and say that I prefer the hand done work Ray. I know that you have complete control with your process, so you can meter how much of 'the effect' you show. Perhaps if one is making this to please a client, then the Topaz would be easy and quick, but for artistic expression, the greater control, and the harder lines could make a more definite statement.