Homage..

[Chunk]

I was thinking of another photographer's work when looking at this scene. Wish I could do it as well as him.

[Greg McCary]

I really like the composition. The rail cutting through the childs head hurts it some.I think I would just clone him out and also the person on the far right. Or maybe better yet remove the rail. Good eye.

[gahspidy]

Chunk, I think you have done this as well as anyone could. Of course, I love this. Gregs points and suggestions are valid, but I think I would let it be.
Is this the format you shot or did you crop this to 8x10? If anything, I only wish for a longer aspect ratio here, 4x6 or even 5x7 to have a little more at the bottom. Nit picking on that one really, as this is fine.
Just my cup O' Tea

[Chunk]

Thanks Greg... good suggestions.

[Chunk]

Thanks Gary. This is cropped, but mostly from the top (ugly sprinkler system added to this nice old lighthouse). Only a small bit more available at the bottom of the frame. I was standing about as far back as possible. I didn't consider shooting at a lower angle or camera position. I should have.
Here's another, full frame, shot with a couple stops less light and slightly higher angle in which the sprinkler piping isn't as distracting and has some interesting reflected light in the upper staircase (didn't really pay attention to that when shooting). It doesn't carry the detail in the newel post and steps as well though. I miss having some people outside the door too.

[GB1]

Welcome back Chunk.

One of those artsy shots I see Nicely done.. and interesting. Turning the 2nd post into the first is an accomplishment. The lighting is mysterious and attractive. Makes you think.

-GB

[gahspidy]

I see. You know, I like that second shot and if you cropped from the top just to eliminate the upper window it would be good. I do prefer though having the people in the door and so the first post is ulimately stronger because of that added element. Perhaps if you cropped a bit less to allow more of the top as in the second image it would add. This looks like an 8x10 crop, but if you cropped to a 5x7 format which is slightly more rectangular and included more of the top, it would be worth a try.

[Overbeyond]

I really like seeing the full height of the staircase up to the small landing. I also like seeing the light on the wood panelling top and bottom and also the light sources.So the second shot but with the people would be my favourite too.