It sounds silly to say, but your UDK scene looks MORE realistic than the real photo. The rocks are much more detailed and realistic looking than the ones in the photo. Looking good!
So far I just want to say that you're definitely doing the right thing going for more realistic contrast - at a glance it already captures a "photo" feel. Also certainly an original enviro :) I have a feeling you'll compliment the rather barren rock landscape with closeups of the aircraft though. If you're going for…