Split-toning a self portrait - yay or nay?

[oneronnalee]

So I've got a bit of an obsession with split-toning my images to have cold darks/shadows and warm lights/highlights. Question is, am I overdeveloping this? I'm always a bit paranoid about that 'cause I'm aware how tacky these can look sometimes, but then also after staring at one photo for what feels like hours I lose perspective of whether I'm going in the right direction or not. I'd like to hear your opinions, suggestions, critique on the following:
- split toning and my use of it
- composition
- decent photo or beyond salvation?
- suggestions for improvement?

If you click the thumbnail you'll see the high-res file, and I'll also be linking to the original below. If anyone would like to tweak with that and show me sample processing (perhaps convert me back from overdeveloping my photos) feel free.

Exif:
f/4.5
1/60
ISO 800
28mm



original

Thanks in advance

Ronna

[3bayjunkie]

Its a good composition for the most part, but id have a little more light in it. its a bit too dark.

[oneronnalee]

Thanks for the comment, I'll get another version up so we can compare

[katia]

i prefer the original, by a longshot.

[oneronnalee]

Originally Posted by katia

i prefer the original, by a longshot.

Could you elaborate please?

[katia]

i'm not really sure why, to be honest. i think because the edited one looks like it came from a cell phone camera or something.

[oneronnalee]

I see what you mean, the 'editing software' on phones employs split toning fairly often 'cause it makes the photos look more 'artistic'. But, I don't know, I love split done though I might be guilty of overdoing it sometimes... I feel that it holds the image together sometimes and is aesthetically pleasing. Thanks for commenting though

& I'd like to hear some more opinions!

Ronna

[vickystylton]

I think the edited one's better. Composition is good. Love the temperature. But as someone said above, it could use a bit more of light. And, I don't feel like you've overdone the split toning.

Another aspect I liked is the cropping. It definitely removed the distractions in the background.

[oneronnalee]

Thank you for the feedback. One thing I can say is that although I knew my composition basics DPS definitely made me more aware of things like distractions, so I've got all you guys to thank. I'll see what I can do about the brightness when I get back from an exhibition - going to see Paul Graham's work