I prefer the effect on the rifleman's base - it looks rather thorough and less "untidy" than the second one, and thus works better with the smooth texture of the snow itself. If one wished to let the ground beneath show through, then I'd suggest texturing and painting it properly before applying the actual snow - just the plain surface of the base makes it look unfinished, somehow IMHO.
That said, if it is possible, it might be a nice touch to add some footsteps as depressions, just to add some variety.