Unfortunately, Michael, this as a generalization is pretty true of most of the "wondrous" Photoshopping folk are proud of.
I try to show what I saw.
That is what makes your picture draw us in. We at first miss totally the dense secrets in the shadows. But then our suspicious physiology does a more careful "last sweep" for security and we discover the treasures that are always there in the shadows.
In a way, this is a metaphor for "modernity". Everyone and everything is presented for maximum attention. So shapes and colors are peaked with little nuance and variation in order to grab the most attention away from competing signs, fashions and poses.
I commend your attention to this recognition of value in having us wonder what's there and enter your offered world/iuniverse to explore.
We do not run any courses here, but I myself learn a lot for the best in other photographer's pictures. I feel my own work has benefited from everyone's here. Without exaggeration, this, example, of maintaining the shadows, however, is one of the most important lessons one can glean here at OPF.
Consider, it doesn't matter much which lens or camera sensor one uses, this is a rule better than "frame tight and crop close" or don't center the subject, or the rules of thirds and the like.
Illuminating everything takes away the drama and unfairness of light.
So thanks again for your stellar contribution by example!
Asher