Rita Johnston
July 2026 - Following Her
Original
About the Image(s)
I took this photo in April about 5:30 pm. The light was not all that good, where these two were hiding out. He was following her, and I wanted to get the shot. Data was Exp 1/1000, F4, focal length 46. Unfortunately processed an 8 bit photo, so I may have to do it over. On this one I tried to take out a lot of the twigs and brush, used ACR to adjust colors, put more exposure on the birds and darkened the background. Then tried to blur the background, and the feet got burred too (but I will correct that). I am most interested in feedback on the composition, the colors, and if I can make it more wow!
4 comments posted
Rita,
There is a lot to like about this image but I think you went overboard on the saturation/clarity. And I think I would not crop in quite as much. See attached as a possible alternative. Posted: 07/06/2026 14:10:46
There is a lot to like about this image but I think you went overboard on the saturation/clarity. And I think I would not crop in quite as much. See attached as a possible alternative. Posted: 07/06/2026 14:10:46
Rita
I like this capture because your title gave it a story. But the title is meant for just two birds. I suggest that you take out the third bird behind the front one. We can't see it very well--I think that's another bird. The confusion is more reason to take it out. I also agree with Dean on the over saturation. I actually like the subtle colors in your original. Maybe give it just a little more punch. Posted: 07/06/2026 15:00:20
I like this capture because your title gave it a story. But the title is meant for just two birds. I suggest that you take out the third bird behind the front one. We can't see it very well--I think that's another bird. The confusion is more reason to take it out. I also agree with Dean on the over saturation. I actually like the subtle colors in your original. Maybe give it just a little more punch. Posted: 07/06/2026 15:00:20
Anne, I did not see 3 birds nor do I now. There is a brown stick form above the first bird, which I took out in the Main. Can you ID the bird if you think it still there after a second look? Posted: 07/06/2026 15:52:13
I like the capture, I also think it's overly saturated. I like the muted colors of the birds rather than bright blue.
I see something above the second bird that could be another bird, or it's just the birds starting to open up it's wing. Posted: 07/06/2026 17:18:12
I see something above the second bird that could be another bird, or it's just the birds starting to open up it's wing. Posted: 07/06/2026 17:18:12