I rarely write articles / photographs like this. However, here the images were both seemed strong and used for different purposes.

The image above was done using a matte finish. Something that I find hard and only a certain type of photograph works well. My opinion of course.

The black and white is heavy contrast, almost low key type work. This was done for an juried photo group. It was accepted and received nice reviews.
Anyway, I could not make up my mind and rather than do my usual random pick I added both.
I went back and forth between the images, Ted, and can’t make my mind up about which one I like most. They both work really well, with the color drawing in the eye in the first image, while the sinuous shapes of the herons’ bodies really stand out in the second image.
Quality is better in first, grainy look of some B&W not what I prefer. Thanks.
Both are beautiful!
Thank you. Different for sure.
Great photo either way 🙂 great job!
Thanks so much.
I prefer the first because for me the background in the second photo competes too strongly for attention with the subjects themselves. Also, those wispy feathers look soft in the first photo and appropriate for a relationship photo, whereas to me they seem rather harsh in the b&w. Interesting, and nice shots they are too.
I agree the black and white is harsh.
Wow!
Ted, do you submit your images anywhere for stock?
Not in a while. Last I did the stock photo sites were so full even exact search words found nothing. Any place you suggest?
Have you tried Shutterstock?
A long time ago, There was Getty, etc. The amount of effort to make it work on the big sites would probably keep inside, not out shooting 😂😂.
Good work to do for rainy or cold days!