Winter Willow

[aprilS]

{click images to view slightly larger}

I'm undecided as to which is the stronger composition, and would appreciate any feedback.

[habakuk]

Both appeal to me. However, the effect they have on me is quote different. The first one puts more emphasis on the willow, the second one on the "reed". In the first one, the vertical lines touching the lower border feel cut of and add this feeling to the overall scene. I just cropped the scene so the tree trunk almost touches the lower border and then the lines lose their "bothersome interference". (All imho, of course).

So, basically, I do like the second one better. Again, the vertical elements seem strong, but more harmonically arranged. I'd probably test if removing the strongest lines that touch the border would help a bit. But I do like the dance of the white tips of the reed really good.

cheers
®

[eob]

I agree. Each image has something different to offer. Both are very impressionistic, but I also prefer the second photo as the one with a lot stronger composition. In the first one, my eyes wander around and don't find any particularly strong point in the composition. In the second one, the accent falls decidedly on the reeds and the atmospheric effect. Very nice.

P.S. I am still waiting for the first snow of this winter - for some variety in my shooting...

[aprilS]

Thank you for your very helpful feedback and suggestions!

I tried a cinematic (16x9) crop on the first image, and like that much better. It removes a barrier to the scene, and the vanishing line of trunks becomes more prominent.

In the second, lightening some of the dominant central reeds helps lift my eye up toward the dancing tips.

P.S. We are still waiting for our second snow of winter...