Posting my first photo here!

any critiques on what could be improved are welcomed.

Welcome. Nice shot. You captured much with the sunset, clouds, gulls and boat. Also, the bridge adds a nice touch to the background.

I really like your image. Awesome warmth and color all shot during the golden hour! The critique issues that jump out at me are 1) The horizon is a little off. I think it would help the image if you straighten the horizon. 2) I like all the elements individually but all together in the same image they tend to crowd each other. You have the beautiful sunset, the very picturesque pier, the birds and the bridge and the clouds and the great color in the sky. Lots of things going on.

With the above in mind I would rate this image a 10/12, with a -1 on "technical excellence" (horizon) and -1 on "center of attention" (not sure which of the many elements I should concentrate on). All in all, a beautiful image!

Welcome Gabs...I like the composition and colours and the peer leading your eyes into the image "but" the burnt out sky detracts points, With a bit of work in Photoshop i believe it could be a lot better...My opinion and I'm sure others may differ..