Last Rays Over Xlendi Bay by Thalia Stones

I'm no expert, Thalia, but I know what I like, and I think I prefer this version more. Somehow it seems more subtle.

It’s difficult to make sunsets work with such vivid colour Thalia, but you have done it here, a beauty.

I prefer this version, Thalia. You've retained the glorious bold colours, it works very well.

It's great that you included the original for comparison, Thalia. It really helps. I think this version is an improvement, with the eye definitely being drawn to the central sunset. My only point of critique concerns the removal of the reflected highlight of sun. The original, in my humble opinion, was more dynamic and attractive. It had the added benefit of guiding the eye. You might not want to duplicate the original but perhaps a touch more reflected sun would complete the picture. I offer these thoughts with a hefty dose of subjectivity. *smile* It's still amazing. Brian

I’m going against the trend Thalia, I think the strong reflection from the sun in the water works well in the original and although I like the more subtle effect in the second It doesn’t quite grab like the first.

I'm going with the original version on this Thalia, only because I love the more vibrancy in the colour of the sun on the sea, my only chritisism would be that top cloud being a bit harsh, but you have softened that in this version, other than a lovely painting 😀

Thank you all once again, you are really very helpful, and I am so very grateful! I will definitely put a little more oomph back into the reflection again, as indeed I have lost it. We used a different camera today, as the light here was causing a flare with the usual one we use. Thank you Seth, I think I do, too! Thank you John, Lewis, Brian, Barry, and Linda and I really do appreciate your help and the time you've given me to look at my work. I too liked the first version, but feel that this does not leap off the wall quite so violently, even though it was actually what I saw!

Yes, I think I prefer this version Thalia, although I did like the previous version too! Stunning colours it looks like a fire in the sky.

Thank you Margaret, yes indeed, the sunsets here are frequently on fire...sometimes literally when we're in the droughty season!!! I have put a more alive reflection in again now, Brian...thanks for that!