To tonemap or not to tonemap

[JoYork]

That is the question.

I've just processed a couple of images and I don't know which one I prefer.... opinions?

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3046/2945328664_42cfea6352_o.jpg

vs

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3053/2945329100_0036cd9bd0_o.jpg

[JC4]

Tough call. I like the extra detail and textures in the tonemapped version, but it looks a little less real. A slight plastic kinda look. If I had to pick, I'd still say 2. It is the HDR forum :)

[Kittygraphix]

Definitely #2! I don't think it's over the top at all, most tone mapped images are way overprocessed looking but this one is perfect!

[boomer3297]

I like 2 as well.....

[Kronie]

i like # 2 as well. I don't think it looks too surreal either. I like it.

[jgrussell]

Another vote for #2. Love the warmth that tone mapping gives it.

[Vanthel]

I really like #2, it's a lot more arty

[René Damkot]

I prefer #1.

[JoYork]

Thanks guys. I often get in this position, there are some images where the tonemapping doesn't work as well as the original, and some where the tonemapping is definitely an improvement, providing it isn't overdone. I think I have a slight preference towards the bottom image, but it's close.

[TheReal7]

I like both but would like to see the middle ground. Try blending the to together. Copy #2 to a layer on top of #1 and play with the transparency slider.

[ZSutton]

I like 1 too..

[canonloader]

Ya know, when I now see an image like #1, the first thing that enters my mind is, "Boy, that would look good as an HDR." There is no denying it, these kinds of images benefit from the treatment. While the subject matter in #1 is interesting, it's beautiful in #2. :)

[zacker]

#2 definetly, without a doubt..

[CameraBuff]

#2 does it for me.

[Avi]

#2 for me...as the first post says...this is an HDR forum...we love HDR's.. :)

Avi

[Tareq]

#3 [i mean B&W from that tonemaped ;-) ]
Yes, #2 is my favorite.

[Ian44]

Another vote for number 2

[red hot sheep]

Definitely number 1 in my book.

[Dork Knight]

I like both, if you had the time to play about it would be interesting to see a blend of images.

I would play about with 100% opacity on the stone work to bring out all of image two, and perhaps 50% to bring through the rest.

But again, both are good images IMO.

[Cathpah]

how about 1.5?

could you tone down the tone-mapping?