Out to Play - Portrait vs Landscape

[PhilD41]

So I went out and took a few shots for the weekly assignment, shoes. I have ended up with two option I really like but can't decide between the portrait version or the Landscape version. I thought I would post them here and get some feed back. I am always looking to get better so feel free to let me have it on any aspect of the images. However, my main question is to which is the technically better and more pleasing image.

For me, I like the layout and feel of the landscape image. I like the composition of the shoes better. The portrait image, however, tells the story better with a more complete image of the playground behind. Unfortunately I feel the shoes become diminished and might loose their place and key focus. I would love to hear your thoughts, and as I said before, don't hold back.

Camera: Nikon D7000
Exposure: 0.01 sec (1/100)
Aperture: f/4.8
Focal Length: 140 mm
ISO Speed: 200
Exposure Bias: 0 EV
Flash: Off, Did not fire


Camera: Nikon D7000
Exposure: 0.006 sec (1/160)
Aperture: f/4.8
Focal Length: 135 mm
ISO Speed: 200
Exposure Bias: 0 EV
Flash: Off, Did not fire

[RichardTaylor]

Both very good.
My preference is for the portrait version.

[Nicole Hanna]

Portrait, definitely. It seems to me you get a complete "story" with the portrait version. The landscape version cuts half the play house out of the background, and it's difficult to discern what the point is. I don't think the shoes suffer from the portrait version. I can actually better envision a young child running towards the playhouse, leaving those shoes behind.

[PhilD41]

Originally Posted by RichardTaylor

Both very good.
My preference is for the portrait version.

Thanks!

Originally Posted by Nicole Hanna

Portrait, definitely. It seems to me you get a complete "story" with the portrait version. The landscape version cuts half the play house out of the background, and it's difficult to discern what the point is. I don't think the shoes suffer from the portrait version. I can actually better envision a young child running towards the playhouse, leaving those shoes behind.

That is how I was leaning. I am glad that the story comes across. There are actually several stories depending on your view point. In our case, the owner of these shoes can't walk so there is the longing to play in the fort yet being held back by the disabilities these shoes represent. One of these days I am sure she will get there, but until then...

Thanks for sharing your thoughts!