rule of thirds

[arlon]

Quick explaination..
I was trying to apply the rule of thirds as best as I could on this shot. The rule is just applied horizontally rather than vertically. I really like the picture but I know it can be improved on so I'm looking for your critique. I'm asking for critique here, not back slapping.

Does the application horizontally hold water or does it totally unbalance the photo?
Do I need more "base" for the photo?
Color or maybe B&W?
Feel free to copy and manipulate any way you want.


LARGER VERSION

[tvoelcker]

Very nice capture here. I really like the reddish orange leaves that provide a nice contrast to the golden leaves behind it.
If it wasn't for the two ducks I would suggest cropping a bit of the left side, however, the ducks add just enough interest to that part of the frame to justify leaving it as is.
I tried scrolling down a bit thus letting the top be slightly cropped and it really helped the trees become more dominant.
However that is a matter of taste.
Nice shot and thanks for sharing.

[mpf777]

For me I think it works good how it is. You have some nice color coming into the image with the leaves on the ground, plus with the yellows peaking threw in the back and then the fog. I think it came out really nice!

[Sterling]

I agree with Tom above; The side to side balance would be totally off if it weren't for those two ducks. Interesting how those tiny objects can balance all those trees. I also agree that cropping off the top of the photo may make it stronger. It feels like you stretched the upper edge of the frame to capture the tree tops. But for me, there's not much of interest way up there.

I do like the colors captured, I think that in B&W it would lose some of the atmosphere.

[fletch]

For me the compsoition feel a little cramped and spilt into two, the bleak lake on the left and the warm trees on the left. I would like to see it with more open empty space on the left to draw the viewer into the warmth of the trees. The trees need to fill only the right thrid for me.

[wal]

I like the photo as it is.. the balance and colors are good. The tree in the center, captured in full completes the scene. I wouldnt crop the top. I like it because the way it is slanting to the left, reaching out into the empty space is just beautiful. The fog and a pair of duck in the water, depicts the calmness of this picture.

[fletch]

I had a go at expressing what I was trying to say. I like the outcome, the composition looks less cramped to me.