Positivity

Just an experiment.

 

It would be nice of you to show us the original stock so we could criticize your work.

 

If I can find it, I will.

 

The effect that you have looks like you just pasted in a C4D and changed the lighten layer. It definitely distracts from the focal as if there's 2 different flows. It looks as if your effects are based on going around the focal to the point that it's a bit distracting. The smudging is everywhere, and a bit too predominant. The image is a bit too sharp and there's too much contrast, IMO. When you're using C4Ds, don't be afraid to erase it if it looks a bit choppy. Also, applying an image over a new layered image and then sharpening definitely helps because you can erase what is too sharp. The light source is definitely off, but that can always be improved. I like the concept, but flowing with it may help you a bit more. Using the burn tool lightly around the edges on the opposite of the light source helps because it can add balance. Overall, good job. I hope you see my criticism and it may help you in future artwork. Keep it up.

 

1. I didn't use a c4d
2. There's no smudging.

 

There definitely is a grunge-type effect that's distracting from the focal. And even if it's not a C4D, the effect looks overlapped a bit. Just a bit too much contrast.