Regarding the waist belt. Given the CRL was just updated it's safe to say if specific details are not mentioned in the CRL then it shouldn't be mentioned here either.
I don't I go back and forth, though it's been a while since I've gone HWT. When I did I used charcoal dust, it's perfect for temporary weathering, and quickly wipes off.
I personally would tighten the upper strapping to remove any open space between the tops and the shoulder covers. Also, removing the majority of lower return edge will help them on the lower end.
Good luck with your application Brian.
Regarding the solo waist belt photo. I suggest either removing it all together or edit it to just show the holster connections. You don't want the unfinished look in your application
Secondly though it may not effect the application process it's highly suggested clean up the Vcoder lines, they should be a bit sharper. Here's a reference photo. Great job