Two variants - CC please

[enzodm]

I took a picture partly prepared, partly in a hurry due to the boat passage:

Initially I supposed the out of focus branches above could function as a sort of frame but... I tried to clone them away (forgive the bad job made with Lightroom - not the best tool, I'll redo it).

Is the latter best for you? Thanks.

 

[Ron Evers]

I prefer #2 with the higher contrast.

 

[tirediron]

I actually prefer #1; I like the branches and do think they add a framing element, but I wish that the exposure was quite so extreme.

 

[shootermcgavin]

I like the branches too, but I also like the guy looking more sun ridden in two. Then it tells a bit more story of an old man going to the beach to read his paper everyday.

 

[enzodm]

Thank you all - although I hoped in some more precise direction .
I can reproduce the same contrast of the #2 also on the #1, of course. It was not golden hour but more towards lunch time...

 

[Patrice]

A circular polarized light filter comes into it's own in the noonday sun. Had you had one for this photo there might have been some detail and contrast in the sky and clouds and less specular highlights in the water. I also find the image a tad overexposed.

 

[Derrel]

I prefer the original,with the branches at the top.

 

[scorpion_tyr]

Definitely number 1 with the branches helping to frame the shot. If it was more open, say in landscape or something then I could see #2 being the better shot without them by showing some open environment.