Wow - I had set this post to follow a long time ago and just taking a peep through upon my return... I can see why I did!! Do you have a Deviant Art account?

Your digital skills are amazing! How long have you been learning/working with that type of media? I have just started and the learning curve sure is steep.

Personally I like the above art work before the filter. The sky seems to have more contrast and stand out more - although the other than the sky the rest of the piece definitely looks more realistic with the filter. Such a tough choice! :3