Rocks with a hint of an alligator (+revised)

Revised Version

Revision 1 (latest)

What changed: Per Bill Fach’s suggestion I added sharpening to the rock and a bit of clarity to the overall image; per Mark Seaver’s recommendation I cloned out the bright rock on the bottom edge which for some reason I hadn’t noticed! I definitely think this second revision is much improved, so thanks to Bill and Mark.

Added after receiving feedback from the community.


Original Version

Weekly Challenge

Geological Wonders
7/12/26 - 7/18/26
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

This image caught my eye because the foreground and background rocks complemented each other and the branch took on a resemblance of an alligator going into the water. I chose to edit to B&W because it seemed to portray the old feeling better than the colorful version. I am hopeful this image meets the criteria for this Weekly Challenge. If it doesn’t, my apologies.

Feedback Requested

My only comment is a friend lent me a spare camera she owns for this photowalk at the Eno River Rock Quarry in Durham, North Carolina. I had never used a Canon camera before but found it easy to navigate.

Technical Details

Camera: Canon EOS Rebel T6i
Lens: Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM
Focal length: 120mm
Shutter speed: 1/160s
Aperture: f/7.1
ISO: 640

Tom: I see the gator :grin:. I like the scene and comp. My first impression was that it is a little soft, especially the main rock. I think that’s a processing issue and not a capture problem. Did a simple Smart sharpen treatment for your consideration. >=))>

Tom, that is one skinny gator…:grinning_face_with_smiling_eyes: It does look like it’s doing what most gators do as a boat approaches, which is slide quietly in the water. I would suggest cloning out the bright rock along the bottom. It’s a fun view that has good visual interest throughout.

The original poster added a revised version of their image.

Hi Bill: I posted the revision with your you suggestion along with Mark Seaver’s… thank you.

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