Rita Johnston  


Choices Ahead by Rita Johnston

July 2026 - Choices Ahead

July 2026 - Rita Johnston

Original

About the Image(s)

I took this photo in the spring going into a nature area. In processing it, I increased the size because it was taken with a cell phone and app. I then adjusted some light and colors with ACR, and added some filters through the Nik collection - a skylight filter and detail extractor. I will put this in a Creative Reality category in a PSA contest in the fall, and hope it competes well. Any recommendations to make it score better are appreciated! Thank you.


4 comments posted




Denise McKay   Denise McKay
I like the perspective and composition of your image Rita. But I'm really drawn to the muted tones and softness of your original. It feels really dreamy, whereas the color on the bridge/walkway in the edited version seems a bit harsh. However you were able to show the bend of the bridge/walkway better in your edited version, and I do think pulling a little more detail from the original was needed as well. I prefer a more toned down version.

I think this is going to be more about personal preferences, but the overall composition and subject matter were well captured in my opinion.   Posted: 07/07/2026 00:14:02
Rita Johnston   Rita Johnston
Thanks Denise for your comments. I think I need to go for impact with this photo for it to compete, so I dialed it up a bit.   Posted: 07/07/2026 17:15:28



Jan Handman   Jan Handman
A beautiful and unique image Rita. I think a case could be made for both the softer version and the more dramatic version, but it sounds like you'll be submitting the latter. So I'd recommend applying a slight vignette because the more dramatic version has increased light/dark contrasts which creates hot spots around the outer edges, which in my experience, many judges ding you for. A vignette also functions to draw the eye to the walkway and reinforces your title. I wish you well in the competition!   Posted: 07/12/2026 21:17:30
Comment Image



Mary Hinsen   Mary Hinsen
I like your processing of this image, Rita. I agree with Jan's suggestions - these would take the drama even further. Good luck in the competition!   Posted: 07/13/2026 23:12:39



 

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