Another image from my little excursion yesterday afternoon. I like the original (first image) because of the splash of color from the tree in the upper left corner which ties in to the slight yellow/brown center of the ‘snowballs’. The B & W conversion works for me because the fluffy snowball like main attractions seem to stand out better against the background.

The first image was processed using Lightroom with a few minor adjustments, i.e., some contrast, clarity and a little vibrance. The second image started from the first and converted to monochrome using Topaz Labs B&W Effects. I really like the Platinum Collection of presets for the overall tone they create.

Which do you prefer?

Snowball Preview
Nikon D5100, Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4, 1/200s, 35mm, f/8, ISO 200

Snowball Preview – Monochrome
Nikon D5100, Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4, 1/200s, 35mm, f/8, ISO 200