Jason, yes, otherworldy, that was my impression too. Strange, even "dead" comes to my mind. I like the first version best, the last one is for me ordinary standard look. It is not special anymore. My advice, make the first *even brighter*. Not kidding! I tried and it looks great at least for my taste. The original intention gets more clear this way for me. The challenge is getting it overall as white as possible while still maintaining hints of detail. (The blacks of the rock stays of course, acts as an anchor). High key simulation.
Christian