I'm often faced with 1] which format size to used and 2] cropping the subject for best presentation.



The original, ASP-C Sensor



Cropped to 4x6 ratio and placement of the subject?



Cropped to 5x7 ratio and again placement



Cropped to 8x10 ratio and subject placement

The cropped placement I seek is the most appealing to the viewer. The size is sometimes dependent on the use of the photo, i.e., postcard, calendar, etc..

Thanks

What Ida done...

Cropped to 4 x 6 ratio (1.5)

I get bothered when water isn't level.
Your pond looks to me like it's going to pour out the right side.

Around 1.5 degrees CCW rotation is needed.
Just follow the reflections--taken as a group they should average out to vertical.
And the bird's waterline should be more horizontal.

As for cropping, Jim B.'s take is close to mine--leave some water for the bird to travel into or it starts to feel crowded to the viewer.