I prefer #1 which I feel conveys the power of the lowering clouds and rugged majesty of the mountains. For me the large rock in the foreground of #2 overpowers the balance of the scene.
I have my idea which of these two photos I would like to submit into our local city photo contest, but if I am overwhelmingly wrong please let me know. Which do you prefer? Thanks in advance.
i like #1 but it looks a bit overworked on my monitor
#2 but first straighten the horizon. #1 when I first look at it I see a storm in the clouds. If this is your choice I'd crop some of the clouds on the top. I like the lighting and colors on both. Do you have landscape view of these photos?
My armatuer opinion. #2, my attention stops at the rock in the foreground. #1 for me the middle of the clouds are too dark and maybe lighten up on the blue. That being said I would choose #1, then again I'm just an amateur who has been judged by the pro's. Good Job.
I'd go for #1. The curve of the lake gives the impression that the horizon line on #2 is not straight when that is not possible to determine accurately. #1 is much more dramatic.