Hey Dale,

Nice shot - I have looked at it several times today before commenting. I really like the crop that you have taken to the image - I think it gives a different, almost movie-like feel to the image.

I agree that I think that the image needs to be brightened just a little bit. I am not sure that I find the branch distracting - I think I would feel comfortable leaving it as is.

Very nice shot - great composition.

James