Resting in the sun

Image Critiques
1

Luysen_IMGP6673-gadwalls-sRGB.jpg
Luysen_IMGP6673-gadwalls-sRGB.jpg2311×1541 248 KB

Critique Style Requested: Standard

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

Description

A pair of gadwalls is resting after the job was done: the plumage has been taken care of and they are ready for the next dive for food.
I want the image to show that they feel at ease and safe. A moment of rest in the sun, before they leave the perch.

Specific Feedback

I like the “elevations” in the water, used by the ducks to sit, rest and clean their feathers. The OOF hump in the LRC leads to the birds. I could have mirrored the image to lead the eye from left to right, but I don’t think that’s necessary.
But the reflection of the male duck touches the hump that the female is perched on, and I less like that. On the other hand, there is too much movement in the water to have a perfect reflection.
What is your opinion?

Technical Details

Pentax K3 Mk. III, 4.5-5.6/150-450 @450mm, ISO800, f/7.1, 1/1250sec.
Processed in DxO PL6, few corrections.

1 Like
2

I like the composition, Han. Excellent detail in the ducks and I like the symmetry between the two. At first glance the female’s reflection looks like one of the humps, which I think adds some interest. A nice environmental image.

3

I like the hump-look to the female’s reflection. Draws you in and makes you want to look at it more. Nice composition and great detail on the birds.

4

Excellent focus and detail on both birds. No need to be particular about merges – nature is messy and this has so much else going for it. The water is a subtle but lovely detail. I wonder about lightening just a tiny bit the female’s perch and the OOF bump bottom center – but not sure why. Maybe to make the ducks stand out more??

5

Thank you @Allen_Brooks , @framingtheuntamed and @Diane_Miller for your comments.
Diane, I’ll follow your suggestion and try what it looks like when I lighten the two bumps that you mention.

6

A lovely composition, Han. I like the way the pair are arranged in the frame and the colors and detail in both the male and female are excellent.