This fellow was captured yesterday as he flew from heavy shadows out into the sun, at his back. I did a traditional rendition, and also a black and white conversion. Because of the dark shadows and the black and white bird, the two images are pretty close, but I am curious which you prefer, and why.
Hi Randy,
I actually prefer the original version, as b&w can have quite a dramatic feel to it, and I don't think there are enough tonal variations for b&w in this particular image (better for landscape imo). I quite like the image, but being backlit it has produced some harshness/blown out areas around the head and neck. However, it has worked for the wings...which I really like. (always nice to see a different approach though)
Hi Randy, you have certainly captured a dramatic head on flight pose in this - with an open beak to let you know he's on his way. I like the back lit wings, together with the falling droplets. I prefer your OP as I like the hint of blues in the BG. Your B&W version seems to have too much contrast.