Likes the Night..

Howard, I like them both, but I think I prefer the other image for several reasons. First, I do like the more side profile view vs the angled away view. Second, I like the sharp thistle in the first vs the oof thistle in this view. Yes, the other shot has the more distracting back oof thistle, but this one has the same thistle, but cut off. However, I do like the view of the pretty wings in this version. Question: is it against the rules to crop the image? Is not, I'd consider cropping the top (to the bottom of the rear thistle) and left side (to eliminate the bud) of this image to eliminate some of the distractions.

Both are fine with this my choice. You are the Thistle man

Both are fine, but I like the large image of this one the best. Great shot IMHO. The OOF thistle does not bother me, but I do find the one on the left distracting. Thanks for sharing.

I think I like this one best Howard. Incredible detail on this moth, Hyles lineata I believe or close relative. The thistle in the background near the moth's head is a bit distracting in the other photo and the wing is not sharp in spots on the other photo. My 2 cents. . . .

Thank you all for your time & valuable comments. I think I prefer this one because the moths markings/patterns are more visible from this POV. Also, the OOF thistle in the BG of the previous post was right behind the head, as Ed pointed out.
Can't crop anymore Scott. Remember, I'm working with 10mp's, and this is already chopped to 3200px wide.
And if I crop the left side to eliminate the bud, I would also be cropping a bit of the thistle it's feeding on as well..Then I'm back to the comp feeling "cramped" all over again.
To quote old Ringo Star - you know "It don't come easy"
Thanx again everyone

I prefer the unusual position of the moth in this image. I have found these little guys almost impossible to capture. Great to have two to choose from.

For me I prefer the linked image as the moth is more in profile.... super looking subject well taken....

These are both lovely & both look even better in the larger version! For some reason I keep thinking this one could be lightened up just a hair.

I like this shot the best. I think it is wonderful. I agree with Howard, though. I would have clipped offf the bud to the left so that there was no distraction.

Hi Howard Wish you would not have me make those difficult choices love them both, love the angle and wing patterns here, love the sharp thistle detail on the first version. to me it's a tie
Albert Darmo