Mom & baby

Just interested in some feedback on this portrait... I like the shadows, but is it too dark? Also, I can't decide whether I like the original, or desaturated version better. Thanks!

I prefer the first. This is a nice tender moment and i like the warm golden glow of the sunlight on the babys face and mothers arms.Possible wall contender ?
Bobby

Thanks! I think that I really prefer the first as well, even though the desaturated one seems softer.

BTW, what is a wall contender? :confused:

I like the second, just on an emotional level. The first makes me think of how to "fix" it, the second just lets me accept it. I think I'm more drawn to the baby's face in the second, which is the problem I have in the first. I wish I could see more of the baby's face. I'm satisfied with the amount I'm given in the second.

I think it's because, in the first, the deep shadows seem to be fighting with the deep colors, which distracts form the light areas. In the second, the shadows and the muted colors share the same space, which makes the light (the baby's face) stand out more.

These are my opinions based solely on my emotional response. I'm no photographic expert.

I like this alot. Not too dark, just right. I prefer the second desaturated shot best. I think Kelly said it best about the colors and lighting drawing to much attention and the desaturated edit allows one to accept the feel and moment of the image. It has a more natural, softer feel. Both versions are good , but I say without any reservations, the second one is my choice. Well done. . .

That's a good shot Kristin, I like it.
I prefer the 1st shot, it has more warmth to it like Bobby says and the green and the light gives me this spring feeling (even if it's the middle of winter :D ), a new start. Works for me ;)
If I would desaturate it, I would go for pure black and white, works better for me than something in between, but that's just personal.

Thanks to everyone for your kind comments. :) I will probably let my sister choose the one that she prefers, and keep the other for myself. I really enjoyed photographing the new baby- it was like a breath of fresh air! :)