Both shots are misleading on the colors IMO, having said that, the top one looks to be a darker lavander (even after considering white balance), and I personally like the darker lavs. The bottom one will make some great whites being so light (again, flash makes this color appear the way it is). If you're ultimate goal is for whites - get the lighter, if you want to pair it with a purple down the road, get the darker. However, the extra size from the older snake is always a welcomed thing. Make sure you know what you're getting into though, and as always - buy what you love, you're the one who will be knee deep in retic logs once a week (at least) and wrist deep in urine cleaning up after it ;-)