#1) I like the idea of framing the shot with the trees, however, the long crop/composition takes away from what the trees are framing. Too much space at the top. Not bad though, nice view.
#2) Nice shot, but I find the blurred foreground plant that is blocking part of the flower, to be a distraction.
First one is a dude. I have many myself. It seemed like a good idea at the time but when it is all said and done - a dud. The second one is a keeper. I would be interested in what lens it was taken with and what difference in depth of field other lens/setting options would have produced. Here is a link to explore that question somewhat. Tele vs wide, F-stop variations etc Depth of Field Calculator
I actually like how the second one has the blurred foreground. It makes it seem as if you're looking through a bunch of ugly weeds to find a beautiful single flower. I don't know...that's just my opinion..But I like it. First one is...meh.
The water trails are very nice in the gull shots. I fiNd the cropping a little too close to the wing tips.
Oh you got lucky nice set of pics I am learning to take my cam with me the better halfs been really patient with me lol