Va Beach Sunrise - Two Versions

[GB1]

Which version do you prefer, if either.

The first is basically unaltered. The second was slightly adjusted.

GB


Unaltered image



Edited image

[MB1]

The second.

Really though these photos share and lack the same attributes of the wider view you posted, great colors and tone with a lack of an object to catch and stop the viewers eye.

[readingr]

The first for me and I disagree with MB in that this works as is for me. I like the subdued colours of the early morning and the fact that the sun is in the position it is and commands the view. Perhaps its a sailor thing.

I take it MB didn't spot the bird just floating beyond the surf.

Roger

[MB1]

...I take it MB didn't spot the bird just floating beyond the surf.

Roger

That little dot? I don't think so.

I thought it was a coke can......

[gahspidy]

I too prefer the 1st unaltered image. It is already contrasty enough. I think the simplicity of this scene makes it work as is. The placement of the horizon and sun with the sliver of shore at the bottom feels well balanced and pleasing to view. There is great serenity and calming here and that is a subject for me. I agree that having another element to attract the eye could make this into a different shot but your handling of this simple scene works imo.
I noticed the bird/coke can just after the surf as well, but didn't you guys see the floating STP oil can just below the horizon near the left side?

GB, I like this, good work

[AmberC]

Hey!! You still in Virginia Beach?? I live out here

Amber

[GB1]

Thanks for taking a look and responding. MB, I can see where you might want yet more. My feelings on this shot are somewhere between Roger's/Gary's and yours. I think what it does it does well, but am not sure it can truly stand on its own without something else. Now, it could probably be used for an advertisement with an ad on the left side -- I tried this to see. What do you think?

Roger, I know what you mean about seeing a place and/or image when you have an experience there: I used to be stationed in El Paso Texas, and I fall into that 1 in 100 group that thinks it's a nice scenic place (lol).

Gary, Thanks for the detailed critique. There are a few things floating (or flying) around out there. I think I PS'd a bird out because it was small distant and small that it looked more like a mistake/dust than anything.

Amber - I'm back on the west coast now. Shot this from one of those Holiday Inns there, the 10th floor. Va Beach has a lot of possibilities.. and I must admit that I prefer a rising sun over setting one (I'm an early morning person). The outer banks are also extremely photographic - you make it there very often?

-GB