Bear!

Thought this pic would be appropriate this week though this one is a captive one. This was taken at Grandfather Mountain, NC. I applied Topaz Simplify Oil Painting setting except on the eyes.

Image was taken with 7d & 500mm full frame at the preserve.

Like the effect and the tight close-up, might give it just a bit more room on the bottom.

I thought the same thing - that chin is so close to the bottom of the frame. I also think the back is a bit disjointed from the front of the bear because the colors are so much lighter. I'd try bringing down the high tones in the back end just a bit so it feels closer to the tones up front.

Neat effect, though. I love the way this came out from a technique standpoint.

Michael, Simplify is one of my favorite tools in the PP kit and I like what you did with it here. I find it works really well with furry creatures. Agree with comments above and would add that a bit of sharpening all around would be nice, with some extra attention to the eyes. Love the eye contact.

Michael, I love the Topaz effect. It works really well with this image. I agree with Jules about having the back a little darker.