Thank you for taking the time to write this out for me. I do appreciate it, old friend.

Yes, for about 95% of my editing, I do bring up that tone curve to "back away" from the true blacks..
I also love, but perhaps overuse, having people in a landscape shot, but honestly those are just my favorites and I don't feel like stopping.
I think I know what you mean, and I think I agree. Again, honestly, thank you for taking the time to analyze it and give me some honest feedback.