Youngster

Image Critiques Avian Critiques
1

_Y6A1237_1920.jpg
_Y6A1237_1920.jpg1280×1920 1.54 MB

_Y6A1239_1920.jpg
_Y6A1239_1920.jpg1920×1920 1.75 MB

Almost same as above, but converted to BW. I tried to optimise the contrast between the black and white parts. Should I be more radical?

_Y6A1240_1920.jpg
_Y6A1240_1920.jpg1920×1920 1.72 MB

Off track composition: a combination of the stark B and W with the curvature of the neck, while cutting off the beak to create emphasis on the rest. Does it work for you?

Critique Style Requested: Standard

The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.

Description

At a nearby pond, a swan couple for the first time succeeded in raising four swanlets. I was lucky enough to get very close to one of the youngsters. I think you can see the birds are brand new: not the smallest trace of wear and tear, neither on the feathers, nor on the beak. I was close enough to make eye contact and portraits. I thought it was time to try for specific compositions and for BW conversions.

Specific Feedback

There are swan photographs galore. Trying to find a new way to (at least for me) portray them seemed in the order here. Does it work (for you)?

Technical Details

Canon EOS R6, Canon RF 200-800mm
Picture 1: ƒ/9, 1/1250, @800 mm, 2500 ISO
Picture 2: ƒ/9, 1/1600, @800 mm, 2500 ISO
Picture 3: ƒ/9, 1/1000, @800 mm, 2500 ISO

Critique Template

Use of the template is optional, but it can help spark ideas.

Vision and Purpose:
Conceptual:
Emotional Impact and Mood:
Composition:
Balance and Visual Weight:
Depth and Dimension:
Color:
Lighting:
Processing:
Technical:

2

Both in B&W !!! Wow The Tone and Soul…Its ALL THERE. Both work for me. Very Cool. !!!

3

HI Xavier. My preference of the first two would be the color because the water drops seem to come through better in that version. I do like the composition of that one. I like the interesting view of the top of the head and the eyes in the third and the water drops work well there. I don’t think it conveys the curvature of the neck really well, which you mentioned in your description, as most of the neck is out of focus. However, I do like it.

4

Hi Xavier
My vote is number one.
Peter

5

I like the color version; the color contrast adds a lot to the image, and I agree that the water drops look better in color.

I love the composition

6

Hi Xavier, Nice perspective with critical focus where it should be. The water drops add a lot. I prefer the first image also.