Tilted horizon?

[jonsim]

So here's my photo and question. What do you guys think of this pic with the tilted horizon? I was going for the effect of having the shot be a little more dynamic, with the dog chasing after the ball. And perhaps with the tilt sort of sucking the viewer's eyes all the way to the end of the pier. I didn't like how it looked tilted even more, but I also don't want the first impression to be like "hmm.. horizon's off". And after staring at the photo for a couple hours I can't give myself a good opinion. So, does the tilted horizon throw you off or does it add to the shot for you? Thanks!

- Jon

p.s. I used a polarized lens to get the colors in the sky



Exif:
Camera: Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1
Lens: LUMIX G VARIO 14-45/F3.5-5.6
F-stop: f/3.5
Shutter Speed: 1/320
Focal Length: 14mm (on micro 4/3)
Flash: Off, Did not fire
ISO: 100
Exposure Bias: 0

[crockny]

Well I'm not a fan of tilted horizons and this one doesn't help the picture IMO -- I also didn't know the dog was chasing a ball until you mentioned it -- can hardly see the ball ... also the dog is in shade while the man is in sun so he's more obvious. Some things to think about for next time!

[Sweetlifephoto]

Also generally don't like tilted horizons especially in images like this where the horizon is visible almost all the way across the image and there are strong vertical lines as well. Takes away from the image IMO.

[jonsim]

Cool, thanks for the quick responses. After you guys mentioned it I definitely agree with you guys. Will keep your tips in mind!

- Jon

[Krusty79]

I do not like tilted horizons either, especially in landscape shots. IMO, it is only effective in some portraits and sports action shots, like a snow boarder on a half pipe. However, I do give you credit for using it to try to accomplish a specific purpose and not to try to fix a mediocre image, which is how I see it used too often.

I think you could have used a slower shutter speed to blur the movement of the ball and dog. That would have given the image somewhat of a dynamic feel. I don't know if your camera model lets you control that, though.