Great time of day, colour and sharpness Leon. There is potentially a good photo in both these subjects but there doesn't seem to be a strong enough focal point and therefore interest for the viewer. I do like the verical theme juxtaposed the shadows but perhaps the right perspective has been missed. Somehow angling so that the background isn't visible, say pointing slightly downward to focus more onn the shadows. Don't know if this helps
I would think to have another crack but use the other end of the focal range on the wide zoom. Certainly including more of the mysterious object in #2. cheers
marco