Jerry Biddlecom
About the Image(s)
This was taken at Wakodahatchee Wetlands, near West Palm Beach, a few years ago at a time when the wood storks had not begun to dominate the area. A pair of cattle egrets were nesting among the thick overgrowth not too far from the entrance, at a spot where a lot of photographers like to congregate. They were in some pretty heavy shade, so I had to brighten and add contrast in order to make them stand out more. I also had to decide how many branches I wanted to remove; the one that looks like it is emerging from the big egret's had to go, and the one in the lower right cutting across the bird's wing was a 50 - 50 on whether or not I would try for that one. I might still give it a go. Most of the editing was done in PS5 Camera Raw.
This round’s discussion is now closed!
4 comments posted
In the original image, all the leaves are a similar tonality, but in the edited version the ones on the right are much brighter than on the left. This makes them stand out more and to me compete somewhat for attention, away from the birds. I'd try to have them all the darker tonality of the left side leaves so they make a good base without attracting attention.
Regarding the 2nd branch, I'd leave it. I think it contributes to the story. Plus, the wing feathers are draped over it so removing it would be rather a challenge. Although perhaps with all the new AI tools not so much?
I do like the removal of the top branch to open up that part of the frame.
Overall quite a nice story-telling image.   Posted: 11/15/2024 01:52:45
Good image.   Posted: 11/20/2024 16:58:25