From Plum Island in September of 2014. Essentially full-frame except for slight rotation. I also tried a pano crop without the water, but liked this one better as an overall birdscape, even though the water may distract a bit from the bird.
I like the hovering pose, with intent stare. The soft colors make the bird pop.
I tried the crop without the water, and can see it going either way. I also tried a version with 50% of the water cropped away, and thought the remainder made a nice, more subtle framing element for the image
There is no right or wrong here, and will be interesting to see what others think.
Wonderful image, Bill. I don't feel the water is a distraction at all. IMO it adds depth. Yes my eyes take the water in, but come right back to the bird. Beautiful light and pose.