Mute Swan w/ Feather

[denise ippolito]

Canon 40D
500mm
ISO 100
1/800 sec. at f/6.3
Tripod, evening light
Converted in LR2
Previously posted in color, I thought the lighting was nice so I started to work on the tones. (I didn't want alot of harsh contrast-I think it would go against the tone of the image)

[Nick Palmieri]

I love the effect and I love the fact the detail has remained in the swan.

[Dave Mills]

Hi Denise, Good job on this with the comp,detail and lighting. Nice partial reflection along with the muted backround...

[Connie Mier]

The bird seems to be looking at that little feather in the water. I like the feather textures and detail, excellent HA too!

[Julie Kenward]

I know you love low-contrast images Denise and I think you've succeeded here in that regard but, for me, the swan is too far on the gray side of white. I'd really like to the front 2/3 of the bird as white as the back. I realize this is a matter of where the light was falling in the image but that head and neck really seem lackluster to me. This is probably just because I am a 'high contrast girl' so do what you feel is best (as always!) For me, this lacks just a bit of what I love about black and white images - their great range of tones from deep black to high white.

[denise ippolito]

Thanks Jules, But like I stated in my info -I really didn't want a high contrast image.To me the scene is peaceful and serene and strong tones would go against the feel that I was trying to create. I will keep your thoughts in mind when I try another one, but will look for a less peaceful feel to the orig.

[Christopher Miller]

Very nice, Denise. Personally I'm with Julie on wanting a tiny bit more contrast, but your image, your vision. I do love the pose and HA.

[denise ippolito]

Thanks for looking in Christopher. I appreciate it.