I need help or ideas with a good logo/watermark

[mosesport]

I've been battling with this issue for quite some time, and I can't seem to come to any conclusion/end result that I'm actually happy with.

Here are a few examples of what I've used in the past..

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2423/3924087433_f493810279.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3542/3850522476_f4f04c1698.jpg

So, the first one, almost banner-like, but not sure if it's something I want to use long-term.

The second is barely noticeable and can be EASILY spot healing brushed out.

I can't seem to find a happy medium for myself. Does anyone know of any websites with good examples for a logo/watermark?

I'm thinking at this point, I want it to be more signature-based (maybe hand-written with a tablet or something similar) ... but I just can't figure out a good way to present it. If the signature is light, it wont show up on bright pictures. If it's dark, you get the idea.

Is there anyone with a decent art background that would be willing to help me out? I can't really pay anything. Even advice would be greatly appreciated.

Sorry for ranting. Thanks in advance if anyone can help :)

.moses.

[livinglight]

In my new watermark (see my blog), which is only temporary while I'm working on a new site and logo, use a middle-gray transparent overlay, and then overlay your logo or text on that.

You can still see the photo under the overlay, and it can't be as easily removed.

[mosesport]

That's a pretty cool idea. I think I came up with something I like. I'll post a preview as soon as I'm done with the pics...maybe get some critique on whether or not it's too intrusive. Thanks for the help! :D