Old withered door and a photo of a friend

Hi everyone,

I'm hoping you could share your thoughts on the following two photographs. I am not sure if the photo of the door is good in terms of composition and editing (to bring out the wood grain) - however I think the conversion really complements the mood.

In the second pic I'm not sure if the pic looks good with the light source shown, but I am quite happy with the overall result nevertheless.

1: I do like this is black and white, but I am interested to see the original. Just a curiosity, nothing wrong with the b&w version as far as I am concerned. I like the ribbon/cloth tied to the door handle, really adds to the composition.

2: I've seen people try to photograph with that sort of light and fail miserably, but you nailed it. It kind of looks like your friend has a cape Gives it a sort of "action" look to it, very dramatic and original.

Gotta love dear ole' nifty.

I think the 2nd photo looks like he has a detached head, with his shirt exposure that bleeds into the background, also his knee is so bright, it takes away from his face.

Thanks all, however in the 2nd pic I see his 'detached' head to add to the eerie nature of the photo.
I will upload the original photo of the 1st next time I'm free.

any other comments?