Each one was better, clearly exhibiting the talent, hard work and unique vision Dave has. I was quite disappointed in this friend. This is not a new phenomona. It isn't illegal as far as I know though certainly questionable in a copyright sense. It is immoral as hell though and no reputable photographer would ever do it.
Direct copying is a slimy business.
I am not talking here of making pilgramiges to the 'shrine' locations made famous by Ansel Adams, David Muench, Morley Baer, the Westons and so many others. A trip to see where the masters captured memorable images can be a great learning experience. We all do it from time to time. We even try our hand at their composition. For most of us the image is a pale comparison and serves to increase the admiration we have for the efforts of those who photographed before us.