Minor Screw Up...is it still okay?

[creativechaos]

I had a beautiful shot of my son and a friend ended up stepping slightly in the way. I cropped it down for the most part, but I didn't know if I should have taken the black line out completely or leave it in like it was intentional. I LOVE the look on his face in this pic and against the yellow (neighbors bricks on porch, don't ask!)

Edited: Posted 2 new crops in reply below.



Exif:
Camera: FujiFilm FinePix S700
Date: 4/30/09 5:22pm
Shutter Speed: 1/250
F/ 3.5
Focal Length: 63.3mm
No Flash

[RuthieMae]

It's not ruined but I wouldn't leave the black line. It could be one of those cool half face shots. I would crop it right down the center of the nose and mouth and leave most of the yellow brick.

[bradzo66]

I dont think its ruined , it is a pity though , it looks like a great shot . I would also crop the dark line out but would look at cropping so the whole of his mouth is still in frame (or at least play around some) as its his mouth that offers so much of the emotion in the photo . All the best

[creativechaos]

I cropped it tight....then a little tighter and I'm not sure which one I like better. I think I almost like the tighter one a little better because there's more focus on his expression. What do you guys think?

Tight:


Tighter:

[JGennuso]

I like the second cropped ones much better. His expression is great! Both crops are good IMO

[bradzo66]

For me its the first one , now obviously this is yr image and personal taste plays a part ( you need to be happy with it ) but I think the balance of still seeing as much as possible and getting rid of the shadow has worked nicely . All the best

[creativechaos]

Thanks guys. I'm still having issues deciding which one I like better. I like the closer one with the focus more on his mouth and expression and I like the other one because it shows a little more of his curls. :| I appreciate all your help and input guys!

[Mr. Arkie]

I'm no expert but I agree with bradzo66, you are the one that counts, this is an important photo to you as it is your son. You should like it. Personally I like the tighter shot as the space between the corner of the lip and edge of the picture seems a distraction to the photo "to me".

[creativechaos]

See, I thought so too, but it also seems to focus more on his expression as well.

[low-wattage]

I'd punch your friend who stepped in the way. HARD. =) they deserve it for tampering with a kick-ass photo =)