Male Malllard

Critique Style Requested: Standard

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

Description

This is a male mallard on a local pond.
A little less than a year ago, I was diagnosed with it Advanced atypical Parkinsons disease with multiple complications. I spent three weeks in the hospital I don’t remember any of it. The fact that I’m able to write this sit down or stand up and take photographs would amaze my doctors. My case is so complicated that several University of Washington movement disorder specialists were unable to take me on and I’ve been lucky to find care. I’m doing well now but that could change at any moment. I have to take a lot of pills but fortunately am eating and sleeping well. Not something I would recommend. But I think awareness of this horrendous disease process is important for people to understand is becoming a lot more common.

In, the year of my absence, Photoshop, photo lab, and light room have all changed it don’t work as well or work differently than they did before. I’m having to relearn how to use the software again. I’m very fortunate to remember the basics. In any case, Dennis Plank
has been very helpful.and I’m starting to get the hang of it. I’m finally able to sit down and spend several hours at my computer and am really enjoying it. Yes I do have some limitations but I’m going to do is best I can. I think this has a painterly feeling to it. Along with the water, that is why I like it.

Specific Feedback

it is not quite in perfect focus although the head is. I like the water

Technical Details

200 to 600 at 600 mm, ISO 2000, F9, 1250th, tripod, Sony A1

1 Like

As you said, David, the water is gorgeous. I’m not sure what processing you did on the duck, but it looks as if the highlights may have gotten pulled down a bit far as the whites are looking pretty gray. Sometimes that highlights slider works too well on an image. Focus looks good to me and you got a much nice background on this one than the wood duck.

So sorry about the health issues you are facing David but glad you are able to post images.
The duck looks nice and sharp with a great reflection. Overall composition is good too with room for the duck to swim into. Agree with Dennis about brightening the whites some.

Glad to hear your treatment is working to where you can get out again and photograph birds. This is a lovely image and the water is as attractive as the duck. Great job.