WOW!WOW!WOW! Love the expression of this young men and your title is perfect.
I like the color and B&W. I don't think putting a plane that doesn't match the young men tells the story you want.. If it was my photo I would turn the background to black and crop tight .. see example.. Fantastic photo! What do you think?   Posted: 11/04/2024 15:48:19

Hey David, this is a fantastic concept and a great way to bring the original concept to life. Really love it. When I first saw it I thought her face was muddy but reference to the original shows otherwise. For me that changes the story so while black and white suits the era I think color is worth considering.

I think the compositing has been done really well, save the white fringing around the helmet buckle. That did catch my eye.   Posted: 11/05/2024 07:16:43

Thanks for sharing the original image! Seeing it in color adds another dimension to the story; the bruises and blood give a realistic sense of battle and hardship, which might get softened in the black and white version. While black and white enhances the timeless feel and focuses on texture, the color version brings out the raw, visceral impact of the scene. Either choice is powerful, though each offers a slightly different emotional tone. Great work capturing a compelling narrative in both versions!   Posted: 11/12/2024 17:07:55

David, I really like your B&W version. It adds drama, exhibits exhaustion, and shock that the color version just doesn't have. The plane was a great addition. One gets the sense that he just returned from a mission and reinforces why he looks like he does. The B&W adds mystery as to what has happened. Was he the pilot? Was the plane on fire? I find the color image confusing. I can understand the blood, but not the mud. The B&W eliminated that issue and yet provides context that something terrible has occurred.   Posted: 11/13/2024 15:17:20