Need help knowing how to proceed

[TT Snim]

Hey, all, still trying to figure out how to do art!  DX  Only today's fail comes to you provided by the colour orange!  I am trying to get the right balance of lines, colours, and shading down before I start on a larger art project, and I'd like you to tell me what image works better for you.  The top one or the bottom one?

1

2

3

4

[emblem]

Hmm. What if the lines were barely visible?
Kinda like the 1st one, but with the lines of the 2nd one almost invisible.

I fail at art terms. :D

If that doesn't work, I'd go with the 1st one.

[Anna Comnena]

I like the thick outlines of the first one, but in general I like the shading on the second one better.

[TT Snim]

So mix them?  I can do that.

[shrig94]

@Anna:

> I like the thick outlines of the first one, but in general I like the shading on the second one better.

Agreed.
Thicker lines create boldness but just because lines are thick does not mean shading should be lost. Excellent job on the work and I wish you good luck with all future pieces and the modifications taking place on this one.

[TT Snim]

Thank you!  I'm going to combine the two images with the suggestions and MAYBE I'll get it right!  XD  *Goes to do so*

[Anna Comnena]

I'd go with 4, just because the shading is milder; since a noticeable light source is from the window in the room behind her, some of the shading doesn't look right, although in the 4th one since the shading is light enough that it isn't an issue.

[Dark Crusade]

Personally I like the third, however the outlines seem a bit too much.