I'm new to and loving Adobe Lightroom

My photography has taken a step forward recently. I'm starting to take portraits and more. So I started fiddling with a photo program on my laptop. It's not the worlds greatest of programs but it gave me a feel for playing with contrast, lighting, and colors. I liked what I was seeing but wanted more. The next step was making the dive to Photoshop for $10 a month (estimated). 

And I'm thrilled I made the leap!

Since football season has started, I'm going to use one of my son as an example.

This photo is the original, straight from the camera. I like it, but it has a bit of a dull look to it. The reds aren't as vibrant as they should be and the grass looks flat as well. The sun was so bright that day that even with the filter lens everything still looked washed out.

The photo could be better. At least in my mind. I love the action in it and want it to be eye catching as well.

So I opened it in Adobe Lightroom, which I'm still learning. I brightened. I clarified. I sharpened. I cropped. I had a blast learning how to touch up different colors (look at that grass!). And this is what I ended up with.

I was pleased with the results. I'm not one to over do everything. I want to keep the original essence of the image, the heart that I caught in the lens. But I want the colors to look true. And this is what I get to see now.

So I grabbed the next photo that I fell in love with:

Yes, it's touched up already. Something drew me to capture this when the guys were running. I'm so glad I listened to that voice in my head. I love the lines and the view of all the boys (I say boys, they are young men as it's a college team) in sync. The candid shot that is so true to a football feel.

So, I'm still learning Adobe Lightroom. I'm making my way with learning the different elements of a picture and what I can touch up and how. It's just an experiment for me at this time. I keep trying different degrees. Which I'll continue to do.

Do you have any suggestions?