Multiprocessed Cheetah

[Morkel Erasmus]

When I posted this HDR image of a cheetah in the wildlife forum followed by a B&W version, there was a request for a sort-of blend between the two...so I tried it out and this is the result.

Posting in OOTB since it's definitely not a run-of-the-mill process for wildlife photography :).

Taken in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park in South Africa.

Would like to know what my esteemed BPN fellows think?

Techs:
Canon 40D with 100-400 L IS USM @ 400mm
f5.6 @ 1/500 SS @ ISO-500
Exp +0.3

[denise ippolito]

Morkel, I like this. The composition and the cheeetah are very nice. The BG looks good and the de-sat. look gives some interest to the image IMO.

[Julie Kenward]

Fabulous idea and you really nailed it, Morkel. Having the BG desaturated really pops that cheetah. It's really cool how the tail is naturally black and white - it's almost like the process bled the color out of that part of him. Excellent!

[Christopher Miller]

Looks good to me, Morkel! I like the composition and walking pose, and the selective desaturation is perfect. Well done!

[Morkel Erasmus]

thanks a lot for your feedback Christopher, Denise & Julie!

[Nicki Gwynn Jones]

Hi Morkel,
I love this as well - that is one gorgeous animal...very well done.
Best,
Nicki

[Morkel Erasmus]

thanks Nicki

[Dave Phillips]

I really like this image(and all your cheetahs)......there is yet another option and
that is to vignette to the B&W. This gives a softer blend still with good visual impact/pop.

Just another ootb option for you Morkel