Hi Andrew! I love that you saw and image within an image in post. I hope this makes sense. I prefer the original total composition, but I like what you are attempting in the cropped version, but the size format makes me uncomfortable. I like the shadow of the 's' curve of the bench, it is just the size format that doesn't work for me. Not sure what others feel about this. I call this type of theme, 'Shapes in a Landscape.' I like the juxtaposition of the straight lines in the pavers and the straight lines cast from the shadows overhead against asymmetrical lines of the 's' curve. The leading lines move the viewer's eye through the composition. The original photo also echoes similar lines in the vines and the windows of the building. This image has lots of energy. I don't know if you could get another shot from a higher perspective that would allow you to get more of the curvy shadows without cropping the total image. Great find!   Posted: 02/02/2021 13:24:55

HI Andrew
Your description is one to remember...always have a camera with you! What a find. I tend to agree with Anne in preferring the original. The cropped photo leaves me feeling I don't know the whole story. I don't exactly like the building in the original so perhaps I would crop it some, but that's my opinion.
My first impression was WOW! Shadows can be deceiving of the object they represent. Nice job!!!   Posted: 02/07/2021 10:20:44

Hi Andrew, I also feel that I am missing more of the story. My eye starts the journey along the seat and is stopped abruptly. I feel that you have cropped too tightly. Some of the shadow tips have been cut off too. I would really like to see more of the cause of this magnificent shadow. It is a really interesting image. I don't mind the letterbox sizing of the image.   Posted: 02/08/2021 18:25:33

Andrew, I like what you captured while on your constitutional and I like your cropping.

Just to play devil's advocate, I could crop a little differently as follows but certainly no better than your cropping. My cropping includes the full bench and shadow which I think are the heart of the image. But now, looking at my version, I should have cropped the top down a little more to take out the posts in the upper right corner.
Anne, Jamie, and Julie have some thoughtful comments. Nice work!
  Posted: 02/20/2021 09:44:20

Love you saw this. I like more of the bench because it is such a great shape or cut the bench out altogether and make the viewer wonder what caused the shadow...   Posted: 02/22/2021 12:33:45

Thanks for all the comments. My feeling best option is to go back with a different lens setup and re-photograph.   Posted: 02/22/2021 12:42:14

Hi Andrew, sorry I'm late to the party, I've had some trouble signing in recently.
While I was incommunicado I played around with your image. I disagree with the suggestions to make it wider. I also wondered how it would look in monochrome. Here's what I came up with.   Posted: 02/24/2021 15:58:57