Last Light on the Lake (+revised)

Revised Version

Revision 1 (latest)

What changed: a slight global lightening, a darker FG and a very small radial gradient on the bird’s head.

Added after receiving feedback from the community.


Original Version

Critique Style: Standard

The photographer is looking for thoughtful feedback on the image as a whole, especially around the areas noted below.

Feedback Focus: Artistic / Expressive

About This Image

I was waiting for a flock of around 300 Corella to fly in for their last drink of the day. The Corella didn’t happen until I was driving down the road, homeward bound. Whilst waiting, a pair of Straw-necked Ibis kept me happy…along with a number of ducks.

Feedback Requested

Anything always appreciated.

Technical Details

Camera: 5D4
Lens: 150-600mm
Focal length: 300mm
Shutter speed: 1/6400
Aperture: f5.6
ISO: 3200

Basic adjustments in ACR were minimal. Bird lightened, Highlights tamed and a tree removal from the background and an OOF duck.

Hi Glenys, love the colors we see on this bird. A pleasing background and foreground too. I am wondering if a bit of brightening could be done without losing the original intent of the image. Either way, a fine photo.

Wonderful light to capture the bird.
When you go to full size the image is dark but all the detail is visible, and the gloom adds to the feeling.

Love it!

Hope the OOF Duck wasn’t upset

Huw

Oooh this is striking and I like your decision to leave it dark as it adds to the feeling of a day closing and the bird getting in a last bite to eat. The light bit of background behind the head works well to separate that most critical area. Maybe just a little radial gradient on the face to lighten it very slightly? Could improve the engagement with the viewer and the bird. I really like the feathers at the base of the neck and their sweep. That little shaft of light could also maybe be emphasized, too. Oh heck, let me just download and do it. Used Camera Raw for a couple of radial gradients, one for the bird’s face and one for where it is standing. Also a dodge layer and a few light brush strokes to lighten where it is standing. Hope you like it. I always love seeing the wildlife from your area and this bird is a great example of how well you see and interact with your critters. Superb skills!

Processing example based on the original image:

The original poster added a revised version of their image.

Thank you @Kris_Smith for the suggestions. I think it’s worked well. Thank you @Huw_Thomas . Duck was not upset!! And, thank you @Allen_Sparks , I liked it dark, but I think the slight lightening has worked.

1 Like

agree with slight lightening
Great image !

Huw

The 2nd version certainly does bring out the bird more and justifiably so - a beauty.

I got busy last week and missed this one (and a few others) but I have to say how much I love it! A lovely bird in wonderful light with a gorgeous setting! The light is fantastic and the revision brings it beautifully! Well done!!

1 Like

Thank you everyone! Great suggestions as always!