Opinions please - which bear?

[NorthernFocus]

A couple of different crops of the same image that I can't decide between. The first image is as shot but cropped to 11x14 format. But as I processed the photo the critic in me started nagging that the bit of white water at bottom left was distracting.



Here is a cropped version sticking with the 11x14 format and removing the white water at bottom left. I'd like to hear opinions on which is a more appealing image. And of course I'd also like C/C on the image in general.

[Brownbear]

I prefer #1 because it gives me a better sense of where the bear is and shows more of the beautiful water/scenario

[Donald]

I prefer the first one. I don't thank that water is distracting and the wider view feels less 'crowded in'. I like the fact that there's a bit more space around the bear and it feels a bit more like seeing context. In particular, i like that we see more at the top right than in the tighter version.

EDIT - Just saw Christina's post. Two great minds think alike!!

[BCrose]

#1 for me. Just needs a fish

Is this from a designated shooting area at Brook Falls?

[Dave Humphries]

I agree; #1

[NorthernFocus]

Thanks for the feedback, folks. I guess my intuition on location was good. I included the water at bottom specifically for the reasons given, to provide the context of the little outcrop that the bear was standing on in the middle of the falls. Maybe just a touch more of it would have helped. I may print this one in the original format on 12x18 metal. The detail on the bear is good for metal and it should stand out nicely against the soft water.

...Is this from a designated shooting area at Brook Falls?

Monte, the only place you are allowed to go near the falls is on the elevated shooting platforms.

[Digital]

Dan, I like #1. You are right Donald great minds think alike.


Bruce

[Stagecoach]

Dan,

My choice would be No 1 also due to it giving a greater sense of what the bear is looking at.

My first thoughts on looking at the image was a concern at the lack of detail in the large white area but then I thought does it add to the impression of mystery as to what's down there ?

Great capture

[Polar01]

Like everyone else #1, if I was going to crop it, I would remove everything from the top of the image down to and including the rock. To me that really makes the bear pop out and sing.

Cheers:

Allan

[FlyingSquirrel]

Not enough votes for #1 so I'll add mine in

[NorthernFocus]

Thanks for the feedback, everyone. I printed a copy of the first shot locally and it looks really nice. In print a lot more detail shows in the white water at the bottom of the falls. I've wanted to make a capture like this one for quite some time. I'm going to print it on canvas.

[FlyingSquirrel]

If you do any test prints and they come out slightly sub par, feel free to just mail them my way

[Stagecoach]

Dan,

Pleased you are happy with the print. Another example where what you see on the screen is not always what you are going to see in the print.