Revised
Critique Style Requested: Standard
The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.
Description
One more from my recent Fall colors trip. The early morning was stormy with both rain and snow coming down as I drove through the Tetons. I had no particular plans for this morning but noticed that there might be some partial clearing in time for me to get to Oxbow Bend which was only a few minutes away. By the time I got there light was splashing across Most of the aspens at the rivers bend and the colors were at peak. There was one lone cloud that got hit by the same light just above the trees. The water was fairly calm close to the shore near the aspens making for a decent reflection part way out into the water so I lined up this shot. The Tetons were, for the most part, covered in clouds and snowless although this storm did bring a fresh layer of snow to the tops of the mountains after the clearing.
Specific Feedback
I’m pretty happy with this one but I’d like your feedback on anything you think needs attention.
Technical Details
Z8, 24-120 @120mm, ISO 200, 1/160, f/11, hand held, manual mode
Critique Template
Use of the template is optional, but it can help spark ideas.
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David,
Its funny how you can notice a place once you have been there, even for a short time. Before I read your description, I said this looks like the Tetons. I spent about a week there back in 2002. I never got light like this, but its an unforgettable place for sure. I think you lucked out with Mt. Moran in the shade and the golden trees in the the spotlight, it created an amazing color contrast and balance at the same time. That small cloud trying to get in on the action is just so comical. Its a great photo. My only nit is the small pine tree on the right. It seems to stick out like a sore thumb wanting to join the fun but is acting like a big downer. I might consider cloning it out if it does not result in some weird artifacts.
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David, the spot light effect makes this a different look at Oxbow Bend. The trees and their reflections are lovely. They contrast well with the darker trees on the left and the distant mountains. The storminess adds a good element to the story. I’m fine with the foreground bank and the two small trees.
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This is stunning David! The light on the trees and the jealous little cloud are excellent, and the moodiness of the mountains and clouds show their jealousy as well. The also don’t have a problem with the foreground trees and bushes.
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I think everyone is spot on about that cloud. It makes the image for me.
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The sunlit cloud is really lovely and for me makes what was already a stunning image that much stronger. I really love the bright warm colours against that backdrop of dark cool colours. It creates drama and tension and really conveys the mood of a moody/stormy autumn day that I quite enjoy. No nits from me!
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As Ansel Adams once said, “Luck favors the prepared.” Your timing was perfect, David. This is a very special image made even more dramatic by the floating clouds and the stormy sky. As far as the pine on the right goes, it doesn’t bother me at all. Your processing of this is spot-on to me.
Like many of us here, we’ve seen many images from this location, but, in my opinion, this is one the best I have seen! 
-P
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You really caught the light there! That is amazing color where the light is setting it on fire.
I find it interesting that the background is actually very intriguing on its own. There’s wonderful play between the foreboding clouds and the mountains. The color in the middle pops out so much though, that it takes a minute to appreciate the background. (It really helps to view it in the larger version.
My only wish is that the near shore wasn’t so pronounced, but I realize that there wasn’t much choice. The foreground would actually be very nice in a different photo, it just gets blown away by the beauty above it in this one.
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You found wonderful lighting here!! If I’m ever there again, I’m bringing hip waders. Or a very tall ladder. But you did a very good job of subduing the FG. I would have a try at removing that tree on the right. (Before it gets any bigger… 
)
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I’m really sorry for the late response to all of your wonderful comments and suggestions but I’ve been in Yosemite for a few days without internet access and wow, was that great but wow, I was unable to keep up with the daily needs also. Anyway, all this to say, Thank you to @Diane_Miller, @John_Williams, @Preston_Birdwell, @Tom_Nevesely, @Igor_Doncov, @Steve_Kennedy, @Mark_Seaver, @Youssef_Ismail.
The two common themes regarding the image were the small pine tree in the foreground and the lit up cloud in the center of the frame. I think everyone loved the lit cloud but most, not all, were in favor of getting rid of the little pine tree. It’s funny, I didn’t even notice that tree until Youssef pointed it out and now I can’t unsee it. So, here is a revision with the tree cloned out at the top for comparison. Let me know your thoughts. Oh, and I cloned out that other little shrub along the shoreline as well. Thanks so much.
I don’t think it changes much in terms of quality. I sort of like the bright tree in the front actually. Could go either way. Looking forward to seeing your Yosemite work.
I love the pruning job! I’ve often fantasized about being able to carry a chain saw…
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I believe I prefer the original with both trees in the shot. Who knew. I didn’t until I cloned the trees out and found that I like the little bit of clutter making for a more real and natural image.
Wow, totally stunning rich colours yet entirely believable, if not oft witnessed. Love the wee sunlit cloud trying to break into the limelight and yes I agree the wee pines could be ejected from the stage as undesirable interlopers per your revised image. Very satisfying autumnal image .
