Specific Feedback Requested
I’d like feedback on whether the image is too dark (underexposed) and if the background is too busy.
Hi Alan - I actually don’t think the image is too dark. In fact, I think it’s not dark enough in the background, because (to answer your question) it is pretty busy back there. The leaves could even be brightened up a bit more. Of course, you’re getting more into “artistic interpretation” territory than a straight photographic representation, but I personally think that’s what this is all about. I gave it a shot below.
That said, I think I would take your idea here, and keep it in mind for a future situation where there may be a darker/less busy background, the light may be stronger, and there may not be as many intruding branches like those in the upper left. You’re on a good track thinking like this!
Sample:
1 Like
Oh wow, that’s so much better! Thanks Alex, and sorry - I didn’t realize I could post only one image per day for critique. Much appreciated…Alam
Alan,
What a fantastic first post! I love this! And am enjoying for several reasons. But first, kudos for spying this situation. Great job with the selective focus/DOF. Sure, the bg is busy, but you’ve totally mitigated that with shallow DOF and having a much darker bg. I don’t disagree with Alex at all and really like his edit, but your original is working quite well too! I do think you have room to both increase the luminosity of the set of leaves as well as darkening the bg. But just as Alex says, you’re now in the personal preference arena - no right or wrong answers.
The only other suggestion I have, and I think Alex kinda did this as well, but maybe just cause it’s darker in the bg, but you could selectively blur a little bit the one branch sitting above the leaves. It looks like it’s in the same plane of focus and so looks pretty sharp. But attention should be on the leaves. Minor thought.
This is a wonderful first image. Looking forward to more images! Welcome!
Lon