Does this work, or no?

[CheaperKings]

Hi all! I took this shot the other day and I just told the kids to goof off and I would take some shots. Well, this one kinda caught MY eye but, I was wondering if it works for anyone else, or is it just me? I'd like to know what you think about the comp, B&W (good for this photo?), and any general ideas to make it better. Thanx!

EXIF:
Model: Nikon D40x
Shutter Speed: 1/30
f Stop: f/4.5
ISO: 800
Focal Length: 26mm
Flash: Did not fire

[zona5101]

i think it is cute. I like the strong side lighting, that and the expression give it a kind of seriousness...then there's a front kick coming from the couch...funny juxtaposition.

[starrylaurie]

Cute shot. However, I'd try taking off the empty space in the left side of the pic. Right now, with him being in the center & additional action on the right, it just feels stagnant. He has a cute expression on his face and that's what you want to focus on first, right? The sister and her mule kick in the background should be the second thing you notice - as the cause of his expression. Cropping his face to one of the thirds will give you that "in the moment" feel that I think maybe you were looking for.
HTH =)

For example - without the noise - something more like this. (I've now deleted your pic from my comp.)

[CheaperKings]

Yeah. You're right - I like that much better. Thnx! I just didn't pick up on it but, I thought there had to be a better way to crop. Great job!

(btw, it doesn't really matter if you deleted it or not - I don't mind. Technically, it's still on your computer otherwise, you wouldn't be able to see it on the screen up here )