Old Cowbird

I used the cowbird image I'd posted before with the nice texture background as a starting image, added 4 textures, 2 Nik Color Efex layers on the base image, softened it a little as it was too sharp, and painted the background with some grunge brushes.

Here's a Nik Silver Efex version.

Hi Judy, the effects you applied are working well with the nicely handled subject....

Neat image process and textures, Judy. I really like the asymmetrical vignette. Thanks for showing the B&W version also.

Nice, I like the color version as it keeps some of the actual bird color and works well with the BG.

Judy, I like the first post best. Nice color tones for the cowbird and you did a great job applying the texture.

Judy, I like them both but I think the second one portrays an old photo better than the first. But we'll wait and see what Christopher says:S3:

Great work, Judy! Love the textures and vignette. Both versions look great, but for me the B&W version takes the cake. :S3: I think it emphasizes the textures and aged look more.

I really like the Nik Silver Efex version, Judy. It brings out all the aged textures and looks like a photo from an older birding book to me. Nicely done!

Thanks everyone! I went back and did the Silver Efex version after I posted the first one and I think I like it better for the old photo effect. But I like the color version too. :S3:

Judy: Great image! Simple, strong, bold, effective. The original composition and image are good, and the pp just makes it better. Especially like the glitter in the eye!