Hi. I can't decide which one of these looks the best. This is the original uncropped + two other cropped versions of that photo. I figure the closeup crop of the flag is the best one because there are less distractions and the main subject takes up most of the entire space. I read something more than once in regards to less distractions from the main subject being a good idea, but I also like to think that sometimes such rules are best not followed for a variety of reasons I don't yet understand to well...I guess sometimes I have croppy confidence when it comes to cropping and composition in general. In this case most the background is out of focus so perhaps it is not as critical to fill the entire frame w/the flags? If anyone has any suggestions, other ideas, or feedback, I would greatly appreciate your input. Also please feel free to play w/the image... Thanks :-) -Jeff

This is the first one I did.

Then I did this one after I remembered reading about filling up most the area w/the main subject.

3rd one is the best .. yep!!

Personally, I usually have a good idea on how my image is going to look...try to frame the subject best I can beforehand. quote: about filling up most the area w/the main subject I agree and disagree..lol...its nice to let the subject 'breathe' too, guess depends on what it is as the main subject. I do like both crops personally but tend to go for the 2nd one a sit shows a bit more 'subject' matter...just my 2 pennies worth;)

Thanks kimariehere and jimry for the feedback :-) jimry: "I guess it depends on what it is as the main subject" Yes..this is one thing that confuses me...Sometimes I have a plan, but not usually... :-)

ahoy matie... aye, I agree with Jimbo... #2... you have more of the vertical lines showing, giving it a nice compo :] you be walkin me plank if you find the hidden treasure first

I would give that Cynlee a Jolly Rogering...I agree with Her and Jimbo ...salute

I would have done #2 myself. This is a question that gets me on almost every shot I do.

#2 for me too here jeff but with a 'lil more space at the bottom! ;)

Thanks for the input everyone....Do you all mean #2 as in the second cropped image here, or #2 out of the three? Sorry, I am even more confused now. Pascale...good point about more space. -Jeff :-)

I think they all mean the second cropped image.I had to comment because every one of my shots here are cropped from huge files.I enlarge it to 100% and then use the navigator to hunt down my crop.Of course that's always a horizontal crop,which explains alot if you've seen my work.It also explains the graininess, LOL. I hate to disagree with everyone here especially because you have quite an esteemed group here that commented.But I like the original.I would just come in a little closer,not as tight as your two crops, but a little less info than the original.Just my 2 cents.Either way like the image a lot.:)

Thanks for the comment Margana. Now I don't feel as confused. :-) I also crop nearly all my images, but usually don't zoom the full size image to 100% in order to crop. Typically I will either reduce the image size till it fits the screen, then crop, or zoom out until I see the entire picture on my screen before cropping. Usually the latter because then it's easier for me to further reduce the image size for display on the monitor. To the best of my knowledge it is a good idea not to reduce the image size for printing. -Jeff :-)

No no, #2 as in the second posted image!! Not as in the second cropped one! U've got the original (#1), then the first cropped image (#2) then the last one (#3). So #2 it is! For me anyway! ;)

I prefer the 2nd image you posted...(the first cropped version). the last image...way too tight IMO. i do like your original too, Jeff!

Message edited on: 05/23/2005 15:31

OK..thanks for confirming Pascale and Sheila. That's the original cropped version. I suppose I should learn to trust my instincts more, but it's nice to get the feedback. I appreciate everyones input. :-) -Jeff

Exactly! I still think that a 'lil more space at the bottom would look nicer, just a tad! ;) 2 pennies, mine, yep!