I think it depends on what story ur trying to tell. The first one looks like the portal popped up while the second one looks like the character opened it himself but either one works. I like the less detailed background in 4 but with the layout in 1 or 2.

It looks good so far. I agree with cropping it, so the focal point isn't center. Also might make it pop more with increased contrast. Something like this but done better, I think Will Terry has made similar adjustments to illustrations in the past. Just an idea, you might like it better the way you have it.

I think it depends on what story ur trying to tell. The first one looks like the portal popped up while the second one looks like the character opened it himself but either one works. I like the less detailed background in 4 but with the layout in 1 or 2.