The photographer is looking for thoughtful feedback on the image as a whole, especially around the areas noted below.
Feedback Focus: Artistic + Technical
About This Image
I was the only car on the road, pulled over, engine off. The migrating Mule Deer (having departed Owens Valley, they were bound for spring pastures in the Sierra) appeared as surprised as I was when several inches of snow plastered the foothills above Bishop, CA, in late May. The wet snow swallowed up all sound, even when the deer moved. I was pleased at the fur detail I got, particularly because I was hand-holding my camera with a relatively slow shutter on an overcast morning.
Feedback Requested
The overcast day was a gift because I didn’t have to deal with overexposures, but a hindrance because the whole series of shots in the flat light lacked contrast. I did my best to edit this to be true to the conditions, but also tried to punch it up and make sure the deer stand out enough. Not sure if I succeeded at both!
Technical Details
Olympus EM-1, 75-300MM (150-300 equivalent), ISO 400, 1/800th, F8, handheld (but probably steadied on the half-open window).
A very pleasant image with nice emotive qualities. It is calming. But I like the winter and I like the snow. This is the big picture. I think you have seen this well.
James, the deer heads peeking out of the heavy snow are great. I like that they’re small in the frame, adding nicely to the sense that they’re surprised. I do wonder about cropping out the less snowy trees along the top.
James: What a neat find and I’m sure an equally neat experience for you. I didn’t really notice the deer in the thumbnail so when they showed up in the larger view they were a delightful surprise. I came across some deer after a deep snow in Bryce Canyon many years ago and was amazed at being able to hear almost every breath and step. Many kudos.>=))>
I love the peeking heads of the deer. Clearly they heard you in the silence. The scene is beautifully composed and well exposed. I might have darkened the top 1/3 to focus on the snow and those compelling ears.
What a great image and great moment you captured - and got to experience. Those of us who have frequented the east side have managed to catch a mule deer here and there… but I can’t say I’ve seen or captured with a fresh coat of snow, and the tight grouping you captured.
I think you did well with the processing given the original flat light. This looks fantastic. No nits or suggestions Thanks for sharing!
