The second one .. the coloring, highlighting, and shape of the swirl is much better. Good job!

The second one is more dramatic and you can see the backlighting in her hair as well as the expression in her eyes. The light spot in the middle of the leg is distracting, though, and you might minimize it if possible. Also, in the second one, you might smooth the right side of the swirl where it goes out of the range of the render... or extend your image. that way the movement of the viewer's eye won't stutter, but proceed smoothly around. The light-hues belt anchors it nicely: the image is centered enough to be calming, but there is sweep and movement enough to be interesting. Nice job! Carolly

My only objection to the second is the lower left curve -- it's too perfect, which kinda ruins the energy a bit. I don't mean you should make it haphazard, but it needs a slightly more erratic feel to make the energy seem less controlled.

I'd go for the second one as well - The color and lighting is more distinct, and the motion of the picture very energetic :) In the second image the light reflective belt carries the motion of the swoosh, where in the first one it gets lost. I don't care terribly much for foggy/glow effects, but that's personal taste :) Also I think that Hauksdottir has a point about that light patch on the middle of her shin. (Hi Hauk!) Lyrra (first rule of critique - if you can't say at least one nice thing, don't say anything!)

Second one for sure. Actually, I like the smooth bottom curve, it balances the top. The belt looks alittle too big or needs to be smoothed on top so it looks less heavy.

i like the second one: more details and nice lighting effect :)

Critics, hmmmm, I can't I am amazed at them both, wonderul, can I ask where you got the clothing? Sharen

#2 ........ no question, it's gotta be @2. ;=]

I prefer the second as well. The magic or energy in the first one looks too solid. The second is more intangible. Also, I like the brighter lighting of the second. Just my two cents. :) Jay

Seems unanimous. I say second, too. Much more exciting.

"#2 ........ no question, it's gotta be @2." [abuv]

• shood bee -

#2 ........ no question, it's gotta be #2. ;=]

[stupid keyboard!]

Know wunder I kant spel! ;=]

I like the second one also :)

Well, I guess it isn't unanimous after all. I actually prefer #1. There are parts of both that I like tho. In the second one, the leg seems too washed out. Tho the top part of the swirl in the second one is better. As VirtualSite mentioned, the bottom swirl is too perfect. Overall, I really like both.