Driftwood in B&W

Took some shots of driftwood while on vacation and wanted some input on conposition and processing, esp since I have a difficult time with getting a B&W I am completely happy with.

1.

IMAGE LINK: http://www.flickr.com …/68088083@N00/5​935708645/

IMAGE LINK: http://www.flickr.com …/68088083@N00/5​935708599/

IMAGE LINK: http://www.flickr.com …/68088083@N00/5​935708621/

Far too contrasty for my taste and the foreground in #1 is out of focus - probably intentionally but not for me.

David

I love the contrast, personally; it reminds me of film. Black & white conversions lend themselves to such treatment, especially with 'textured' subjects like wood and pebbles. #1 stands out, good capture!

Second one for me, exposure is nicely done. First the DOF misses, and last is over exposed?

First of all, thanks for all the comments. I do appreciate them all. Definitely shows how subjective this can be.

David - the contrast was intentional, but will look at reducing it a bit and see what the results are.

3ntreri - Thanks. #1 is my favorite as well.

Flo - #2 is my second favorite On the first, the DOF was meant to focus on the rings, but I can understand wanting a bit more in focus. I'll double check the histogram on #3, since I don't have a calibrated monitor.

Thanks again for taking the time to respond.

Any more C&C is greatly appreciated.