New Year's Card(inal)

[Judy Howle]

I cloned out several small branches and toned down the brightness of the background on the left. I also painted the eye as it was very dark, almost black. I used Topaz Simplify in 2 different layers with 2 different settings, blended with the original, one with soft light blend mode. Then I added the frame with PhotoFrame and a few snowflakes around on the frame and on the branch with another snow brush also, and added the star sprays under the text and the music notes.

I hope everyone has a healthy and prosperous New Year!

[denise ippolito]

Very cute and clever Judy :S3: I love the puffed up bird and the open mouth. Great text and use of the stars and music notes!! Nice work, Happy New Year!

[Cheryl Slechta]

Judy, the original capture looks great and I love your enhancements - it makes a perfect card. Wishing you a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year also:S3:

[Dave Woeller]

Happy new year Judy. Excellent, creative work from you as always. My best to you for the new year.

[Judy Howle]

Thanks for the comments and good wishes Denise, Cheryl and Dave!

[Steve Adkins]

Perfect pose and processing, Judy! Love the RED. Happy 2013!!

[Dennis Bishop]

The title is just perfect. Nice work on the eye, too. You did that very well. I like that the snowflakes on the branch and frame are almost subliminal.

[Judy Howle]

Thanks very much Dennis! I was sorely tempted to put snowflakes in the background of the image but I restrained myself, LOL.

[Maureen Allen]

Love your puffed up cardinal, Judy. Very nice card. I think I would have liked the snowflakes :S3:

[Andrew McLachlan]

Very nice work Judy...love the text and notes too. I have a pair hanging around my backyard set-up but can't get them up on the perches yet.