Wow, that first photo is spectacular; I'd say it more than worked out okay. I think it is better than the black and white version; I think the B&W is too stark; there's more depth and nuance with the subtle transition in the color.

I've used GIMP, but that was before I knew very much about editing photos, so I can't really judge it. I probably should give it a try again, rather than paying $20 a month for Photoshop.

I like the 'natural' edits of both photos. Both are good, but that first one especially.