Guardians of the lake, cover art style (updated (9/2)

[auriond]

It looks great to me, but I still think the edges of the bow need blurring. Again it was the first thing that jumped out at me even though my eyes weren't looking for it. It makes it very obvious that the bow was cut out and pasted on (which it was, for the purposes of resizing).

[Igor]

Great one Andail!
I think the last version is a great improvement over original.. except maybe for the look on monster's faces. Must say i prefer interesting spooky look, over "angry monsters from the lake" cliche.

[Snarky]

It looks like the latest version is closer to what you wanted to achieve. It is more dramatic and action-filled, but I think the original one has a serenity, an almost dreamlike quality that I prefer in some ways.

In the first image, it wasn't so much about being attacked by monsters, but more about encountering these strange beings. It wasn't clear that the guardians were aggressive, or who was attacking whom. Their expressions were almost tragic. Oh well.

[Oz]

It looks like the latest version is closer to what you wanted to achieve. It is more dramatic and action-filled, but I think the original one has a serenity, an almost dreamlike quality that I prefer in some ways.

In the first image, it wasn't so much about being attacked by monsters, but more about encountering these strange beings. It wasn't clear that the guardians were aggressive, or who was attacking whom. Their expressions were almost tragic. Oh well.

Well put! That's exactly how I felt about the original (and still the best IMO).

[Andail]

I get your points, mates. Next time I will try to create a scenery which allows for more original elements, without appearing un-professional.
The final version of this image can be found here:
http://features.cgsociety.org/gallerycrits/266948/266948_1171118841_medium.jpg
Added more details.

All in all, I'm not particularly satisfied with the image per see, but I'm rather happy that I pulled off such a big project.

If you get back to my cgtalk page I'll soon start uploading WIP-images for my next project.
See ya around!

[jetxl]

Although you've finished the picture, i'd still like to point out 3 things.
The fist of the giant with no horns looks weird, and he should have horns too.
The pose of the archer looks uncomfortable. Would an archer stand sideways, balanced on one leg? Especially with a shot so importaint?