My printer is down .. maybe the "cheap" inks that I am using... so nice to see these images of NY State.
Both look dull. All that you have to do is set full black & white levels on the histogram in PS -- that will give more punch.
I prefer color in the winter.
I get a lot of comment on my color saying that B & W would be fine. Not so. You have gorgeous oportunities.. with green, bluish shadows ( I tend to gray down), yellows, and any reds too.
The problem here is simply the scene.
It is just fine -- but not outstanding, partly due to the routine look of the building. All you can do is look for another location. Most likely the lakes and natural falls would be frozen. That sugests that you will have to get out this winter before the area freeze. I would say that you will be OK in December and early January.
- Keep the color on.
-How about giving us a small bonfire (for the reds).. or ..
- a sleigh ride ... or
- snowshoeing.
- or Frost's "Stopping by the Woods on a Snowy Evening" ?
You can do it !
Easier said than donw!
Nice image #1 on my screen after PS.