The Dilema

I'm not that big into photography, but i enjoy it as a pastime. But when i get into it, i guess i'm a perfectionist. Example:

Here's a decent (figuratively) picture of my cousin:


So, now i want to make the light just a little better:


After a little bit of "messing" around i come up with this:


So what's the 'dilema' you're asking? I found out what kind of pictures i like, and the problem is; i know how to make them.

'?' you all say. well, i just want to take honest pictures. I hate being fake, and i wish i could take either of the pictures i edited without editing them. So now that i know how to make the pictures i like....it's kinda like having Christmas everyday. It loses its magic.

Hope somebody got something out of this; if you would like to tell me which is your favorite or tips on taking them, any comments would be appreciated.