A Graceful Splash

Critique Style Requested: Standard

The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.

Description

I captured the moment a pelican alighted upon the waters near Woy Woy, a region known for its rich avian life. The bird, with wings outstretched, presents a study of form and function, demonstrating the pelican’s mastery over both sky and sea. The light plays upon its feathers, creating a texture that is almost tangible, while droplets of water scatter like tiny crystals around its form. It’s a dance of survival, grace, and elegance that plays out daily in these waters, often unnoticed.

Specific Feedback

All feedback welcomed.

Technical Details

83 mm at ISO 800 and 1⁄2500sec at ƒ/8

Great timing, Saundie. I really like the wing position and the splash. The upper whites look to be blown, and you could try recovering them in your raw editor. I do wish for a bit more room on the right, but that would require either changing aspect ratios or removing some of the splash behind the bird, which I’d hate to see.

1 Like

Hi Saundie, nice splash down you captured. I like the water and the wing position. Sun angle appears to be pretty much directly overhead which makes exposure a challenge (agree with Dennis about blown whites). Shadows are also cast over much of the bird too but it is nice to see detail there.

Thanks Dennis, this image’s crop allows for room all round will take a look and see if I can mod it as per your suggestion. Thanks.

Thanks for your feedback Allen, much appreciated.