Personally I much prefer seeing natural background like this rather than completely smooth BG with little detail. Wild birds live in habitats and habitats have texture and contrast. Portraying habitats in bird images adds hugely to the understanding of the species, and places the image in biological context. The challenge is to do this without taking away from the subject. I think you have succeeded admirably here.
This is a nice picture Gayle. I like environmental elements myself but find the two diagonal bright lines a little strong. Maybe they could be toned down a bit. I like the overall color tone of this one as well. This is the first Barred Owl shot I've ever seen where I could pupil instead of just a big dark eye.
Steve
The BG doesn't bother me a bit. I like the diagonal composition but wish for more space. I'm wondering whether better eye contact would have improved the image but I like it as is.
I have this one, processed earlier, of the same bird with more eye contact. Both photos are full frame, so there's no room available. The eye contact is more direct in this one.
I warmed the color in the first post because it was a very cold grey day. I prefer it warmer, now that I look at them both.
Barred Owl
Posting Permissions
Reply With Quote