Stairs to the Beach..Fire Island, NY

I'm rather new to "serious" photography. I realize that the above photo is not great (even though I like it). I have my own opinion as to what's "wrong" with it but I was hoping to get some independant comments from others to see if my conclusions about its faults parallel those of more experienced photographers. That's why I posted it for criticism. Call it a learning experience if you will, but any criticism, as brutal as you want to make it, is earnestly welcomed!

Thanks.