The Power Of Critique

My friend Warren at Friendly Photo Forummade a suggestion to crop out the "OAT RENTALS" at the top of the photo. I was just a bit skeptical - I had rather liked the bold, white-on-black lettering, but tried it.

Well, now I'm with Warren - the composition looks cleaner and more balanced to me now.

Here's some more feedback from Dolph on the same forum: "When I read about this art form, they always come back to 'keep it simple.' I like the second composition better. The original was attempting to tell two stories. This has one, and gives me the feeling of being at the docks ready to go fishing."

Well put - I think that makes sense.

What do you think?

Thanks, Warren!