Muskrat Munch

Image Critiques Wildlife Critiques
1

VenturaPondRatTDS.jpg
VenturaPondRatTDS.jpg1545×2000 945 KB

Critique Style Requested: Standard

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

Description

This image of a muskrat eating willows was taken last week at our local ponds. I had a nice session with the muskrat until someone else came along and it decided two was too many.

Specific Feedback

The muskrat was in a shady area, and most of the images I got were too shaded on the face to get a good look. This one the eye at least was in the light. I cloned out a few unruly OOF leaves on the left side just below the muskrat. I hope it is not too obvious.

Technical Details

Canon 5DMiii, f9, 1/640 sec, iso 640, 100-400/1.4TC at 560 mm, this crop is about 40% of the original.

Critique Template

Use of the template is optional, but it can help spark ideas.

  • Vision and Purpose:
  • Conceptual:
  • Emotional Impact and Mood:
  • Composition:
  • Balance and Visual Weight:
  • Depth and Dimension:
  • Color:
  • Lighting:
  • Processing:
  • Technical:
2

Hi Ed, I like the framing with the leaves on top and interesting look at the feeding behavior. Nice reflection and wavy water below. Nice you got a frame with the eyes in sunlight. Wishing the muskrat was a bit sharper. Nice catch.

3

thank you @Allen_Sparks. I think some of the leaves may have been competing for the focal point in this one.

4

Another wildlife critter in your collection. Your photos are a glimpse into a world many of us don’t have the privilege of sharing and are always a treat. I might have considered more of a square crop to eliminate some of the water at the bottom.

5

Thank you @Barbara_Djordjevic. I can see taking some of the water off the bottom to help balance this a bit more.