Linda Mikulich 's comment on Walk Softly finished version

I love the example you show here with color and lighting, first being too much the same value, warmth etc. Hard to see when you like the painting to begin with. This is an area I struggle with all the time.
I have seen this painting before and loved it, fabulous change as your subject just pops forward.

Nice to know I am not alone in this struggle.
Gorgeous work.
thanks for sharing it!