The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.
Description
I don’t usually shoot in very light and bright conditions, but when I’m confronted with around 300 plumed whistling ducks I make an exception.
I couldn’t believe my eyes. All these ducks happily doing what ducks do in a murky little pond next to a cattle sale yard.
I found it challenging to separate individuals or small groups.
Specific Feedback
Does the harsher than ideal light detract from the image.
All comments are welcomed and appreciated!
Technical Details
ISO 640 f6.3 1/1600 150-600@400mm
Basic ACR adjustments include Shadows lifted ever so slightly and highlights taken down.
In PS some bright reflections from the fencing rails in the yards taken out. Half a duck removed from RHS and BG softened by way of lowering contrast and adding a light Field Blur.
There was a big tree shadow in the FG that, I feel, gives the image a good base.
Reworked image by darkening BG.
Critique Template
Use of the template is optional, but it can help spark ideas.
A very interesting environmental story. I think that despite the time of day, the whistlers are correctly exposed
Not sure, but does lowering the exposure of the background help ? May need to desaturate the background green if you try that
I think you handled the bright light very well, Glennie. To me it doesn’t have any of that look to it. I’d have guessed a light haze layer from the look of it.
Glennie, , this is a neat image! The geese are well-exposed, despite the un-ideal light. The ducks are sharp and you have avoided shadows. I love that one contrary one! The comp might be just a tad tight, but in perfect proportion.
In situations like this, I often try to darken the BG, if possible, to make the birds “pop” more. I don’t know if you use PS, but “selecting the subject” then inversing to “select the BG” will allow you to work on the BG only - perhaps darken the greens, and the BG in general.
Very nice image!
Sandy, I have PS, and I love playing. I have actually lightened the green by way of negative contrast and saturation. They were very green! Maybe from the nutrients from the cattle yards. Karl has also suggested bringing down the exposure.
A wonderful scene that makes me smile! The light looks somewhat soft so you have minimized the contrast very well. Colors, focus, sharpness, detail – all look just fine! I do prefer the darker BG. Good idea.
