Would love your inputs

[4nR]

I already posted this pic before in another thread, but i've been working on it and wanted to get some inputs from the forum. this was the original:

http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/8097/steelworkersmorig3qk.jpg

One option I went with was a simple b&w conversion:

http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/5111/steelworker1sm1ym.jpg

and another where i cut/cloned a bit:

http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/3862/steelworker2sm2pg.jpg

let me know what works/what doesnt/what you would change. I think this shot has some potential and would like to add it to my portfolio. I'd really appreciate it. thanks.

[Radtech1]

The original had some hellacious jpging artifacts, but this would be the direction that I would take the Mono conversion. Boost the red channel all the way, Drop the blue and then use the green channel to adjust your overall density. That way the clouds become part of the photo. This is only a demonstration of concept, though, as there is just too much jpg compression.

Rad

[juneappal]

I like the effect that radtech is shooting for.....

If I was going to remove something, it wouldn't be the second man. It would be that little stub to the left of the smaller man, on top of the lower fat beam. Maybe the paint can too.

[4nR]

very interesting radtech. that jpeg artifacts are actually just from compressing it to size and the original doesnt have any noticable ones. however, i really dont want to go for the abstract painted look with this one. i really want to try to show an industrial, 'serious' look with this shot. would you guys agree that the shot would look better if both men were in it?

[dancad]

I personally like the look of it with just the one man. He seems to be looking out in the distance, pondering about something...It kind of gives it a lonely and tranquil feeling whereas with both men it's just like another day at work.