The photographer has shared comprehensive information about their intent and creative vision for this image. Please examine the details and offer feedback on how they can most effectively realize their vision.
Self Critique
I am unsure about the saturation and the amount of noise reduction.
Creative direction
My goal with this image was to create a more “complete” composition. Many of the local aurora photos I’ve seen don’t really incorporate an interesting foreground, most are just a silhouette. I wanted this image to showcase the aurora, as well as the unique geology of this location.
Specific Feedback
I guess what I’m looking for is opinions on what could have been done better. Everything from composition to post processing.
Technical Details
Canon EOS 6D Mark II
Rokinon AF 14mm f/2.8
14mm
15.0 sec
f/2.8
ISO 3200
Description
This image was take in the upper peninsula of Michigan. I traveled here of Fall colors. It was an absolute treat to have both clear sky and an active aurora while I was there. I had very little experience capturing the aurora, so there was a bit of fast and frantic learning curve!
Critique Template
Use of the template is optional, but it can help spark ideas.
I think you managed the learning curve quite well! Applause for including such an interesting and pleasing FG. The aurora is framed very nicely and the colors and tonalities look quite believable. I love the sprinkle of stars and their reflections!
I can’t see noise at this size, but it is always a concern for night photography. If you would share what you did for NR that would give some information for further discussion. A screenshot of a small area at 100% would help. And of course noise is brought out by processing – not a simple cause.
I have the same lens and it looks like your copy has the same odd star shapes in the corners. I have found a fix and am working on a writeup, but it is a bit daunting.
It’s a great composition. I agree with you that an aurora really needs a landscape to go with it. I always love reflections, especially of the night sky, so naturally I love this image! I think it’s possible that your ISO and exposure time have ever so slightly over-exposed the sky. I bet you could bring that down with something as simple as the highlight slider applied globally. You could also use curves to darken the sky. You might bring out the columns some too by adding clarity, but that can also increase the appearance of noise. Do you use Lightroom? If you use the denoise tool on this image, it might really help the noise in the foreground, then you could brush some texture and sharping back in. Topaz Sharpen could also do a great job, if you select just the foreground. It can cause some weird patterns in the lighter part of your sky if you apply it to the entire image. I’m glad you got to experience this! It was incredible to witness!
