which one is better composed?

[winterstar]

With the first one, I was going for the little tree with the gnarly tree behind it. The second one I was just going for focus on the little tree. So two different takes on the same spot, and I'd like to know which one works best to others.

Thanks!

[OsmosisStudios]

I would say the first, but neither really stirs my fancy all that much to be honest.

[Erica.P]

I also agree that the composition in the first picture is more interesting. I would like to see more texture in the image. I think that would make for a more dynamic photograph.

Erica

[wulf]

Sounds like a request for a comparison critique rather than a technique discussion so I've moved it to the right place. If I had to pick, I'd opt for the first one as being a slightly better photo but more because the rest of the scene has a bit more interest and doesn't have that slight lens flare rainbow, not because positioning the little tree on left or right makes much difference.

Wulf

[Hartzler]

I prefer the first over the second. It has more to hold my interest. The small tree by itself doesn't work as well.