Peaceful existence in Illinois: Another view

I am so thankful to comment on the last post of this. Helped me see through new eyes. Yes, Kerry, the horse photo was mine. what a great memory you have! I've done 3 such thematic photos in the last 5 years or so as i happen to see the situation. Anyway, I found this other view and am thinking it might satisfy some of the issues. I did a very close crop to eliminate most of the offending scoreboard, so that left me with a long narrow result. If I ever wanted to print it, I'm not sure how much I can do with the sizing. But, anyway, wondering if you all think this is a better way to go.

Because I'm coming to this with preconceived notions, I'm not sure my comment is going to be worth much, but I'm going to try to be clinical.

There are things in favor of both versions, but I think the first has more going for it. The plant in this one is more prominent; it's stronger relative to the rest of the image than in the first one, and that's a good thing. The scoreboard was a strong element in the first image, but I thought that was good (even though I wished it weren't stronger than the plant). To me, the scoreboard is a symbol of something that's regarded favorably, so it provides a counterpoint to what could be a source of pollution.

The crowd and cheerleaders are another important part of the story. In the current image, the celebration is quickly connected to the players shown on the field. In the first image, there's nothing shown on the field, but there's a celebration. The crowd is pointed toward the scoreboard and the plant, and -- because of the viewpoint -- the cheerleaders are positioned below the plant. Perhaps they're not just excited about the game . . .

It was the title and your introduction to the first image that made everything work. Perhaps, this is one of those images that needs some text within the frame to relay the message.

thanks. And esp thanks for your comments re the scoreboard. I had gotten negative feedback on it's part in the photo and thought I was just not seeing it through good eyes. I see it as a contrast to the coal plant too. Appreciate your taking the time to respond.

Hazel, I think having a power plant in the image is just a normal bkgd for most viewers. We all very used to seeing people out and about with all kinds of buildings, traffic, etc. and because that is normal, we don't especially "see" anything unique about the structures. But we do focus on other people and that is what I continue to see in this image, young people having a good time at a football game.

I think this image conveys your point better than the first one. But, without knowing the story, I wouldn't pay much attention to the power plant. I think you have a challenging task here.

I think you are right, Anita. As mentioned by others, the proper title will make a world of difference. Will just have to work on it. Thanks.

Hazel, I had a thought about this image while driving across country yesterday. I saw a power plant with smoke rising out of it, causing me to notice it. I think that would add attention to your power plant and make it a more "active" part of the image. WDYT?