The first time i made this (the first fuzzy photo) i crocheted very tight, which meant more rows of shells. The second time around i crocheted firmly but loose. My daughters was smaller stitches but more of them so the bonnet felt rather stiff, my nieces bonnet is the looser version and it came out more light and airy and no where near the same stiffness.
I suggest doing the bonnet the way you feel comfortable while taking notes as to what you feel you should do to make it better suited for your taste or need.