Just One New Portrait in Desperate Need of C&C

[JackRabbit]

Just one new one this time. So I just got a Canon 430EZ Speedlite today so I went on a little riding sesh with a friend. He wanted a portrait and I couldn't say no so I snapped the photo and presto, this is what you get. I'm not sure how I feel about this. I feel like the headroom is a tad distracting but the picture just looked off when it is cropped so that the top part isn't there. However, as always, I'd love some C&C on this.

Also, add me as a contact on Flickr! I'm always looking for new critiques and inspirations!

Flickr: jackstrutz's Photostream

 

[Stephski86]

The flash is a bit harsh on his face and hands, and yeah you're right about the headroom. Also, those little bits in the background (branches and also bottom left corner) are a tad distracting, you could easily get rid of them in PS. Focus is good though

 

[JackRabbit]

Ok, reuploaded with all the suggestions aforementioned taken into account.

 

[JackRabbit]

Oh, and make sure you click the little yellow resize bar above the image. It looks really ****ty and out of focus if you don't.