Alleyway in Andalusia

[offwhitedog]

Please critique the composition of these shots. I've included 2 because they are very similar to each other, and it probably makes sense to compare them and give comments based on the slightly different approach in each to the same subject. The first is simply about the leading line of the narrow street receding into the frame. The second is the same but with the arch partially framing the shot.

EXIF data is the same for both: ISO 400, f/16, 1/250 sec

[offwhitedog]

(bump) Any comments please?
What it comes down to is - does it work better with, or without, the archway?

[emcn]

I think it's better without it....in this case. The problem is that the archway is too distracting (the stonework is too dominant) and this makes the archway less of a frame and more of a feature.

Also, the immediate view inside the archway is not the attractive windy street, but a corner building with a fairly decorative and "feature-rich" facade (flower pot, small balcony, intrusive road sign ,etc).

[junglebear]

I like the one with the archway, it leads my eye from the top to bottom then following the alley through the shot, although the foreground is a bit too prominent. I think a B&W conversion could work. The first one, for me, lacks a focal point and doesn't really hold my interest.

[LeeR]

I am going to agree with emcn here; the first is much stronger by far. First, in all of composition, the most graceful line is an "S" curve. In this image the "S" is mostly suggested, but it is there for those looking for it. Second, the strong and dominate 'twoer' acts as a fulcrum on which the composition balances. And finally, the arch simply takes up too much of the frame in the second. The lines of the arch tend to make us want to look down and to the left when you are wanting us to look up and to the right. It was a noble effort, but the first is the keeper.

[offwhitedog]

Thanks for the advice guys, much appreciated.