The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.
Description
Once again sitting in the kayak waiting to see what shows up. Believe it or not, this is a pair of dragonflies - there is a female in his claspers just behind him laying eggs. They fly around like this together while she does this and occasionally another male will try to break them up so he can mate with her. He also dislodges any eggs fertilized by a previous mate. Ruthless. I have a shot I’ll post of a fight like this I caught on another day with another species, but for now this lovely moment. The breeze settled and gave me a perfect reflection which was amazing because they were here and gone, off to lay eggs in another spot on the backwater. The species is Dot-tailed Whiteface.
Specific Feedback
I think I have it dialed in, but if there is anything else I could do processing wise, I’m game.
Technical Details
Handheld in the kayak w/Freewell CPL
Lr for initial processing including getting that water to be the correct level of dark (it’s VERY tannic), left exposure where it was but raised whites and shadows, lowered blacks and highlights. Used and Object mask on the reflection to fine tune that. Topaz Sharpen AI and then into Photoshop for some distraction removal. Cropped square.
Critique Template
Use of the template is optional, but it can help spark ideas.
Kris, dragonflies doing the “downward dog”, with an excellent reflection. I think reducing the contrast, to let the reflections behind show up, just a bit, would make the viewing easier.
Holy Moley!! What a wonderful capture with that amazing reflection! My only suggestion is to spend even more time in your kayak. You can come in at night to download and process. (And post.)
I love your composition, Kris. With the lily pad perch as a background my eye went immediately to the dragonfly, then there was the surprise of the gorgeous reflection waiting for me. The black water background sets the whole thing off very well. Beautiful image.
Kris, I am sure enjoying your shots from the kayak! Keep it up. I had no idea it was two DFs in the image and what was happening, so I appreciate the explanation. Great shot, especially from a kayak. Keep them coming.
Beautiful! I would like to see just a tiny bit more of the ripples on the water behind the dragonflies - if that could be lightened just a tad, I feel like it would add context. Catching the reflection was such serendipity!
Thanks @Jim_Gavin & @Denise_Dethlefsen - the lack of sky reflection at the angle I had was an advantage for sure. The reflection is the bomb. Have added a variation in the OP with a slightly lightened top section. Thoughts??
Kris: Correct me if I’m wrong but not too long ago you accused Diane of showing off. Takes one to know one I suppose What a spectacular capture of a unique moment. Kudos to you for your patience and most especially your skill. Most excellent in every way. >=))>
What a spectacular capture of a unique moment. Kudos to you for your patience and most especially your skill. Most excellent in every way. 