Wow, how he cuts the water with his beak! Wonderful image, Roy! But I think, this is the utmost limit for the crop. You already see artifacts on the water (upper right from the beak). Probably a little bit to much Topaz?   Posted: 11/08/2025 16:55:55

Roy - You absolutely nailed a very striking action moment, the skimmer's wing curve, the razor-edge precision of the beak touching water, and the mirrored reflection tell a great story as it perfectly captures the subject's hunting behavior. Both the timing and framing of this "decisive moment" were spot on. Other than the artifacts in the water, this is a salon competition-level image; dynamic & elegant.
  Posted: 11/08/2025 19:23:22

Excellent capture Roy! In Topaz try the subject selection button in order to avoid artifacts.   Posted: 11/09/2025 12:33:11

I an almost embarrassed to show the raw file. It was pretty foggy out but Topez saved the day. I could still use photoshop to clean up the artifacts. I wonder when and if there will, or can be, a line drawn on the use of AI to inhance photos?   Posted: 11/10/2025 18:34:19

Your image perfectly showcases a skimmer doing what it does best!! The open wings are a plus. I liked seeing the raw file and how you managed the fog. I noticed the color of the water looks a little artificial, although it could be seen as an artistic rendition. :)   Posted: 11/10/2025 23:53:32