BlueRose: apparently the consensis is that, for the most part, post-processing = your 'second choice'. But as you said, and most seem to agree, it's a matter of choice based on what each artist believes is best for a particular image -in that artist's mind-. Luckily, most folks in this forum, just want to see good art, and aren't worried overmuch about methods. But, the discussions sure are fun! :D

RosemaryR
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"This...this is magnificent!"
"Oh, yeah. Ooooo. Aaaaah. That's how it starts.
Then, later, there's ...running. And....screaming."