Blue Crab in Brown Water

Critique Style Requested: Standard

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

Description

This blue crab was at the World Birding Center on South Padre Island in Texas last month. I didn’t really notice the patterns in the water until I got it back and started working on processing it.

Specific Feedback

I know the color of the water gives this an overall sepia tone. Not sure if this would be better as a monochromatic image. I guess I could try it and see. The crab showed up better in Black and White, but I think I like this color scheme better. Any comments, recommendations or suggestions are appreciated.

Technical Details

Canon 5DMiii, f8, 1/2000 sec, iso 1600, 100-400/1.4TC at 140 mm. Cleaned up a lot of little specks and spots in the water.


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I like the colors here, and that surprises me a bit as I generally don’t care for brown water. But the obviously shallow bottom works as brown. The crab stands out nicely – its not easy to shoot things under water like that.

The patterns are very interesting. I hate to even suggest it, but it makes me wonder if it’s an oil slick. (I remember years ago when the Houston Ship Channel caught fire…)

Thank you again @Diane_Miller. I hadn’t considered the oil slick, but that does make some sense in this area.

I just love the patterns in water and partially visible Blue Crab !
I eally like the abstract nature of frame!

Thank you very much @JRajput.