It sure pays to have the art background. I went to art school and I believe it really helps with the composition.
I agree Jim that art school may help with composition. It helps a person become aware of the different options and possibilities. There is still an inborn talent that a true artist has that can't be learned in schools.
One of my favorite places. Yosemite from Glacier Point
Yosemite is my very favorite place on earth. Thanks for posting your photo of Half dome. I hope you don't mind that I correct you on the location that you took this photo. It is actually "Washburn Point" that you too it from. The "Glacier Point" photos have more of the North face showing. Thanks for your comments tommatlock.