B&W or sepia??

[ATB510]

I'm pretty new to the whole photography world so I was hoping you guys could help me out...
I took this shot while on a hike in Banff, Alberta. The original shot was in colour, but when I was playing around with Lightroom I felt that the monochrome effect had more impact. Thing is, I can't decide on whether the black and white is better, or the sepia version. Here are both versions.

The B&W...


The sepia...


Which has more impact/tone in your opinion?

Thanks a mil!

[windrider86]

I actually like the sepia version. It seems to have more contrast and shows more detail than the black and white

[x_eternity_x]

The black and white has more impact, but if you added a hint of texture to the sepia, that would really be amazing. Also, you might have to tone down the contrast on the sepia one to fully capitalize on the effect.

[Sterling]

Interesting that these these two treatment change the subject of the photo for me. In the B&W I feel like the tree is the subject and in the sepia I feel like the town in the valley is the subject. I guess because the tree has a much stronger contrast with the sky in the B&W version.

[katezack]

The black and white definitely.
The sepia is a little too toned for me. Perhaps if you brought it down a notch.
All that you pay attention to is the sepia tone instead of the photo.This is the kind of impact that you don't want... to bring attention to something other than the photo.

I was in a competition last night where the judge mentioned this very thing with a sepia toned portrait. And it was a shame because the portrait itself was beautifully done. And the sepia toning actually took away from it.

Sometimes you need to go away and then come back with fresh eyes.

Kate

[looking4OPH]

I like them both, but the B&W a little better.

[voltech]

agreed with sepia

[wooconley]

I really like the strong response I have when I see the B&W. The sepia seems lifeless in comparison - too washed out. Nice shot.

[ATB510]

Thanks a mil for the comments everyone! I'm gonna play around with it a little see if I can get the detail out of the B&W and I'll post it back here.
Cheers! AB

[wal]

if the tree wasn't there, id go for bnw.. but it's there and the bnw makes it the centre of attention... i feel the rest of the landscape is ignored. I also think the sepia is kind of too strong..