Ingrid Lockhart
July 2025 - First Catch
About the Image(s)
This image was taken with my Sony RX10iv, 220mm, F4, ISO 125, 1/2500sec. This little duckling was swimming in the shallows of the harbor in Leland Michigan, while his mother and 3 siblings were basking in the sun on a rock on the nearby shore. He showed great initiative and independence at a very young age and captured my heart. In post processing, I cropped and straightened the image, added some clarity and brightness, and processed it through TopazAI Sharpen, primarily to reduce noise. Again, I'm trying to decide if he deserves a month in my 2026 calendar.
12 comments posted
Hi Ingrid,
You've captured a beautiful nature shot! The sharp focus on the duckling draws the viewer in, and the depth of field enhances the overall image. I also appreciate the framing; the space in front of the duckling gives it room to move. As a suggestion, consider experimenting with a vignette effect from the bottom to further direct attention to the duckling. Posted: 07/11/2025 00:39:05
You've captured a beautiful nature shot! The sharp focus on the duckling draws the viewer in, and the depth of field enhances the overall image. I also appreciate the framing; the space in front of the duckling gives it room to move. As a suggestion, consider experimenting with a vignette effect from the bottom to further direct attention to the duckling. Posted: 07/11/2025 00:39:05
Thanks, Tom! I will try some additional vignette on the bottom and see how it looks. Posted: 07/19/2025 23:20:53
(Groups 21 & 48 & 71)
Ingrid, your duckling image has great visual impact and interest. I think the multi colored bait fish really helps to draw you to the ducklings face. I took the liberty to play with your image. Cropping different ways but always came back to your crop as by far the best. The small ripples of the water also draw you in. Tells a good story. Posted: 07/14/2025 13:10:02
Thanks, Tom. I appreciate your taking the time to add your comments! Posted: 07/19/2025 23:22:07
Hi Ingrid,
Great focus on the duckling and the colors are great on his catch! I agree that the cropping leaving space and showing the ripples is great, but agree with a slight vignette to make the duckling pop even more Posted: 07/16/2025 18:14:37
Great focus on the duckling and the colors are great on his catch! I agree that the cropping leaving space and showing the ripples is great, but agree with a slight vignette to make the duckling pop even more Posted: 07/16/2025 18:14:37
Thanks, Erin. I'll work on the vignette opportunites. Posted: 07/19/2025 23:22:56
Hi Ingrid - What a wonderful story your image tells! This little duckling's personality is captured in its body language. The sharpness of the duckling's head, eye and the fish as well as the ripples in the water direct my focus to the key elements in the photograph. I agree that the crop works and your efforts in post were successfully implemented. I have no suggestions. Well captured! Posted: 07/17/2025 05:20:36
thanks, Darcy! I appreciate your comments! Posted: 07/19/2025 23:23:24
What a cute baby. Well shot and wonderfully processed.
I wouldn't change a thing.
Karen Posted: 07/18/2025 18:56:17
I wouldn't change a thing.
Karen Posted: 07/18/2025 18:56:17
Thanks, Karen!!!! Posted: 07/19/2025 23:23:38
Hi Ingrid,
Greetings my friend.
An amazing capture of the rooky and it's first catch. He will be an expert hunter soon. Nice capture and thank you for sharing..
Cheers.
Kamal.
Posted: 07/21/2025 11:50:48
Greetings my friend.
An amazing capture of the rooky and it's first catch. He will be an expert hunter soon. Nice capture and thank you for sharing..
Cheers.
Kamal.
Posted: 07/21/2025 11:50:48
Hi Ingrid,
I just want to echo what everyone else has said. What a great capture. I would try the vignette, but change any thing else.
Best regards,
Greg
PS: I think in is a strong candidate for a month on your calendar. Posted: 07/22/2025 19:18:33
I just want to echo what everyone else has said. What a great capture. I would try the vignette, but change any thing else.
Best regards,
Greg
PS: I think in is a strong candidate for a month on your calendar. Posted: 07/22/2025 19:18:33