Tdhis is a beautiful photograph. I think cropping the bottom to just below the line of (bushes? grass?) would improve the composition. The foreground of empty space detracts from the panorama composition which (in my opinion) conveys the stilll ness of winter in the country side. The road with all the blank space seems to cut the picture in two, but with the bottom croped out, its curves make it a useful element that increases the dynamism by creating two strong cvergin lines (the brook. With bottom cropping the buggy becomes a little ore important. I like it where it is. I would either crop or erase the branches of the treehiding beyond the edge of the picture. You might play with the contrast. If you reduce the contrast you might bring out some texture or little curves or rises or vegetation likee those in the foreground.   Posted: 02/07/2025 19:46:11

Hi Robert. Very nice capture. The photo of the Amish countryside is visually striking with the stark contrast between black and white. Compositionally, there is a nice balance of elements in the middle ground and background with a horse & buggy, a road, a farmstead, and trees. These elements tell a story about the community, its peacefulness, and simplicity. I understand your concern about the large white hillside. The large area of snow in the foreground lacks detail or variations and for me, it dominates the scene. If possible, consider bringing out more texture in the snow. Alternatively, try cropping to a point where small blades of grass are visible through the snow; it could add some depth and interest to the foreground.   Posted: 02/07/2025 19:58:55

Hi Robert, I would vote for leaving it as it is, for exactly the same reasons you stated. The background anchors the image in time and place, and gives a wider dimension for the story it tells, of a culture and a way of life. Also, I think that compositionwise, the horse and bug are in a perfect place, following the dark diagonal of the road in the white scenery. Cropping a little at the bottom edge, as Al suggested, might be a good idea, too.   Posted: 02/08/2025 14:18:43

Hi Robert - living where I do near Lancaster County, PA I experienced this scene.

I like the view with the buggy and the farm. I also think you had a good balance showing the snow field versus the buggy. For myself I would have liked a little more separation between the buildings on the left and the edge of the image.

Still a very nice image of the farm and buggy in a snow field.   Posted: 02/08/2025 15:35:15

Hi Robert - Nice capture of this winter scene! I think you've done a good job with the technical side of the photo, particularly in terms of the exposure and sharpness. I understand your dilemma of cropping. There's a lot to look at in this scene, but from my perspective, the most interesting and impactful part of the image is the Amish buggy. Cropping from the top might be something to consider, to help increase the presence of the buggy. To me, just featuring the buggy and the empty field in front have the potential for an even more impactful image.   Posted: 02/08/2025 23:30:06