Catherdral Rocks from Valley View, Yosemite

[Mike Buckley]

whilst I respect all the views expressed above and thank people for them, this is the 'right' image for me.

That stresses the importance of having a strong vision for how we want our photos to look, for what we want our photos to be. It's understandable that so many people don't have the confidence yet in their ability to settle on such a vision and to be thrilled with it regardless of whatever other people think. It's especially understandable because almost none of us had that confidence when we started out; it's almost always an acquired skill that sometimes takes considerable time and experience to develop.

When people suggest other ways to make this or that photo, sometimes the suggestions are in the realm of improving upon the concept already clearly implemented by the photographer. Sometimes the suggestions are in the realm of using a different concept altogether that tells a different story or tells the same story differently much as would happen when two people tell the same story of an event to a small group of friends. Both kinds of suggestions are valid and worth considering if nothing else when making future photos. Indeed, both kinds of suggestions are already included in this thread.

However, getting back to the importance of being confident in one's vision of how the photo will be, if those suggestions don't comply with that vision, they are to be taken into account when making another photo, not the photo being critiqued.

Just my thinking about this stuff.

[Donald]

It's especially understandable because almost none of us had that confidence when we started out; it's almost always an acquired skill that sometimes takes considerable time and experience to develop.

I totally agree. I think of myself 6, 5 years ago and there is no way I had that strength of vision and I do think you have to work at developing it. Once you feel you are there, then be prepared to stick with it.

Both kinds of suggestions are valid and worth considering if nothing else when making future photos.

Precisely. That is why my respect and thanks for all the comments is very genuine. If I ever become conceited to the extent that I think my colleagues on here have got nothing to offer my learning, then that's the time to pack up. If I ever think my learning has stopped, then that is also the time to find a new interest.

[terrib]

I really like this composition and everything about it. Wouldn't suggest a thing different. What a joy to begin seeing the results of your time spent there.