Cropping Suggestions

[hmca]

I posted this image in Today's Picture but didn't like that the boats were centered.  So I created a cropped version but still think it is off.  How would you crop this image?

[pontiac1940]

Something like this perhaps ... the boats are now offset from centre and there is space in front for them to sail to.  

[hmca]

Thanks, Clive. I agree that is a better crop.

[PeteB]

Hi Helen,

After I worked on the image, I discovered that my take is very similar to Clive''s Here is my image and my description.

When i first viewed your image, I thought the aspect ratio was 2x1 (a popular ratio for panoramas). But I was wrong. Then I decided to crop to a fatter frame, 5x4, and then place the subject in a pleasing spot. First I used the tried and true “rule of thirds” for placement … but then I checked and discovered that the placement also works with the “golden triangle”. I did add some contrast and a vignette to the crop.
BTW, Clive, nice crop

[hmca]

Thank you, Pete. It was reassuring to see that the crop that both you and Clive chose is very similar to my second try on the picture. I also notice that you both worked on enhancing the color a bit as well. Sometimes I need to push things a little more than I do it seems.

[fotofrank]

Hi Helen,

Change the Profile, Cropped, Flipped the Image, Darkened the top and lower the Highlights.

[hmca]

Thanks, Frank. I often make that left>right flip suggestion but hadn't thought of it here. For this image it would require flipping the lettering on the sails as well.
I definitely like the directional look of the image and if I were to post it where someone wasn't familiar with the lay of the land they wouldn't notice the flip.