What changed: Here’s my revised image. I incorporated the changes recommended by Glenys and Ted, taking out a couple zebras, lightening the underside of the scuffling zebras and tweaking the mud in the foreground. My revision is very close to Glenys recommendation. I appreciate all the great thoughts and comments.
Added after receiving feedback from the community.
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
We were enjoying a waterhole in Chyulu Hills in Kenya from a sunken hide. It was great fun watching the various herds wait their turn at the waterhole. The zebras provided constant entertainment. They’d hold back initially, then line up on the edge and drink. Before you know it they would crowd all the way into the center and entirety of the waterhole. The kerfuffle would then commence, they would push and shove and kick each other violently . If we were particularly lucky two of the males would take offense and go at it vigorously.
Feedback Requested
Any comments on composition. Framing, light, color? I always appreciate all comments as I am learning so much from all of you.
I love the energy I feel from this scene as the Zebras are exhibiting this intense behavior. I think the image would benefit from removing the head of the Zebra on the left edge that is half cut off, or adjusting the crop if possible. Nothing off with the exposure as far as I can see. Nicely captured Timothy.
Oh! What a wonderful image showing all the fierceness that zebras possess.
Like Ted, I would be first removing the heads of the left zebras. I would also remove the zebra on the right. By doing that, all the visual tension is on the two males warring. The addition of the foal is a great reminder of how precarious his/her life could be.
Exposure looks good. I might be tempted to raise the shadows underneath the two fighting. The little bit of mud? in the foreground ? I’m not sure, but I think the colour looks a bit off compare to the rest of the image?
Glenys, thank you so much for your thoughts. Excellent suggestions as always! I will spend a little time on the image incorporating your suggestions and repost.
Glenys, you beat me to the punch! I was just in the process of reworking the photo. My revision is slightly different than yours but very close. I must be learning something from you
The low angle is fantastic for this. Nice job capturing the action.
I’m going to disagree with the changes, however. I think if you’re going to remove other zebras, it’s gotta be all or nothing. In this case I prefer the original because the multiple zebras provide a consistent background pattern, which balances the frame. Leaving the one behind just makes it more of a glaring distraction.
