Ethereal Snow Goose & REWORK

Image Critiques Avian Critiques
1

Rework:

dcampbell-goose-motion-bernardo-2024-test-vert
dcampbell-goose-motion-bernardo-2024-test-vert759×983 132 KB

Original:

dcampbell-goose-motion-bernardo-2024-test.jpg
dcampbell-goose-motion-bernardo-2024-test.jpg1400×983 128 KB

Critique Style Requested: In-depth

The photographer has shared comprehensive information about their intent and creative vision for this image. Please examine the details and offer feedback on how they can most effectively realize their vision.

Self Critique

I love the goose, with the face almost defined and the wings moving fast. I like the colors, sort of… the sky color is a little weird. It was around sunset when this was shot. The cranes at the bottom may be a distraction.

I know the goose is facing out, but that’s how it happened.

Creative direction

This looks like a painting to me. I’ve never practiced these kinds of shots, so I don’t know exactly what I’m looking for.

Specific Feedback

Aesthetics mostly - colors, light, cropping. And emotional for artistic value and first impression.

Technical Details

Fuji X-H2S, 1/60s, f/7.1, ISO 12800, 420mm

Fujinon XF 150-600mm lens

Description

This was taken at sunset during a photo workshop at Bernardo NWR in NM. We were practicing slow-motion panning and this snow goose obliged by giving me what I think is a pretty interesting shot to work with.

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2

Interesting image, Debbie. Intentionally blurred images like this are always tough to get looking just the way you hope. I like the light in this image. The goose leaving the frame, not as much, but I think if you crop in from the left to a squarish format, it becomes less of an issue (see below). The cranes aren’t an issue at all-they blend right into the vegetation.

dcampbell-goose-motion-bernardo-2024-test copy
dcampbell-goose-motion-bernardo-2024-test copy964×983 149 KB

3

I agree with Dennis on the crop, maybe even a vertical 2:3 to help with a sense of movement. I actually love that light. It’s one of my most favorite tones. I call it dusty pink. Great job on the exposure, I love it!

1 Like
4

I like the light throughout, including the sky, and I like the landscape with the many layers (the cranes seem to fit right in). I think you did a good job panning as the face and legs are pretty sharp. For my tastes, I would have preferred the goose on the left side of the frame flying towards the right and if possible, a bit more room on top to fly into.

1 Like
5

@Allen_Brooks I too would have preferred the goose flying in, but it wouldn’t cooperate :slight_smile:

@Paul_Holdorf, @Dennis_Plank I tried a vertical crop and I may like that better!

6

I think your repost is a good choice for the crop, Debbie.

1 Like
7

@Dennis_Plank Thanks!

8

The reworked crop certainly comes across better

1 Like