Sylvia, for me a very atmospheric photo that you show us. Before I read your description, I thought it was a rice farmer.
But it's not important for the image. I see a man walking back after his work is done. He is walking through the vastness of the Wadden Sea(?) and is alone. Man and nature are the two terms that spontaneously come to mind. How small the man seems, how overwhelmingly large is the sea, nature.
An image that makes you think. Thank you.
I look forward to more photos of Japan from you.
Maybe you`ll like my small changes.
First I raised the saturation in the blue channel a little, changed the tonal correction a little (set a black and white point) and finally cropped the image a bit.

  Posted: 04/06/2025 15:13:46

  Posted: 04/06/2025 15:14:07

Sylvia, this is a very interesting photo. I am intrigued with what seems to be sand dunes or hills in the background with the tall poles planted in the sand in front of this scene. I like the calm pastel blue and beige colors seen throughout the area of the poles along with some kind of ornaments attached to the poles which all adds to the mystic. The man carrying the bucket brings all the elements of this image together and completes a very interesting story for me. I do favor a crop that reduces the foreground a bit since I am more focused and interested in the areas of the poles and the man with his bucket, maybe a 16x9 crop? Very nicely done.   Posted: 04/08/2025 12:57:38

Sylvia, The background drew me in. The angle of the poles, reflections and colors held my eye. The man carrying the bucket adds another level of interest. His small figure against the poles looks labored. My only suggestion would be to crop the foreground to highlight the pole reflections and blue in the background. Great photo capturing a way of life.

  Posted: 04/11/2025 18:19:05

Hi Sylvia,

I love the vertical/horizontal lines creating a grid all throughout and then the man and bucket superimposed on top of them. A very complex and compelling story as he walks home after a hard day's work.

Thank you!   Posted: 04/12/2025 13:28:50

Sylvia, I like the contrast between the lone man and the vertical lines of the poles in the background. The bird in the lower right hand corner also adds to the image, though it blends in with the ground a little too much. I agree that cutting out some of the foreground helps. I like Sabine's suggestion with the increased contrast and color.   Posted: 04/14/2025 18:46:30

Lovely image, Sylvia-I really enjoy the contrast between the vertical poles and the horizontal layers of sea and sky. It feels quiet and contemplative, perfectly capturing the mood of the moment.   Posted: 04/15/2025 05:33:41

THank you all for your comments! Sabine, I do like your edit and will try to edit it myself similarly   Posted: 04/18/2025 18:30:08