Can't Be Fenced Inby
SocomComment: Thought I would give you some feedback since you are clearly wanting it. I confess, I gave you a 4 for this one. You did quite well with an average of 5.7. Why did I give it a 4?
a) the composition didn't really work for me. I'd have cropped it a bit differently. Either I'd have removed more of the sky and left the clouds, or then kept the sky as it is in the original.
b) the image is very flat, lacking in contrast (can happen after tonemapping with Photomatix).
c) the border. I think in this instance the image would have worked better without the border or then it should have been a black border, the grey just highlights the lack of contrast in the image.
And the last point, is the sensor dust. When you are presenting an image for voting I think it's sloppy not to pay attention to these things (believe me, I have learned the hard way on that point!) I equate it to having multiple spelling and grammar errors in a job application letter. You want to do well, then make sure you present yourself (or your image) in the best possible light.
I took the liberty of working up your original keeping the B&W theme. Sky is still a bit noisy, but as you don't have Topaz DeNoise, I didn't use it (and I didn't bother with the dust either as this is just an example) The editing would comply with the basic ruleset and could be accomplished in Photoshop Elements (not sure what software you have). You got quite a few comments during voting, most of which should have helped you figure out what did or didn't work. Someone commented about not liking the border. You didn't feel this was helpful, and yet I would say, it's very helpful towards understanding why some have scored you lower.
ETA. I do like the image, but I feel you didn't make the best out of it. Remember, at the end of the day, if you like it, then that's what counts.
Why not throw the original into the Post Processing Side challenge and see what other people may come up with? This sort of side challenge is really an excellent way to learn.
Post Processing Side ChallengeMessage edited by author 2011-05-21 04:49:54. 
Photographer found comment helpful.
