I worked this osprey image in PS using Fractalious, beginning with the impressions preset. I reduced the layer opacity to bring back just a touch of the original, and then used layer masks to further bring back some detail in a few areas. I always appreciate the thoughts of the talented folks here.
Hey Dave,
This almost looks like art from the Haida or NW territory indians! I don't mind the central placement of the osprey here as it seems to work and the high key BG also fits......as you have muted the wings quite a bit. I am debating the head......while I thought I would like it as sharp as you have presented....something is making me want it a little softer/similar to the effect on the wings. Just a thought.....let's see how others feel and all in all a very nice one for the theme!
Dave, I like the composition but might add a sliver to the bottom. The color tones are unexpected yet lovely. The effect is sweet and you did a great job with the filter choice. I might blend the head just a bit so it doesn't stand out so much. Nice work. I love the white background for this it's very appealing to me.
Thank you Roman and Denise, as I value your thoughts. Truth be told, I struggled mightily with that head. I had made it sharper but backed off of that and wasn't sure I had gone far enough. This version is 2 shades lighter on the layer mask, and to me, it fits better. I also added a touch to the bottom of the frame. I'm looking forward to more thoughts.
I like the re-post as well. I think if we could see more of the eyes the sharper head version would have been preferable. Love the high key BG and the filter effect.
Dave, I like the processing you've done with this image, and I love the composition...it reminds me of the old Journey album covers with the graceful sweep of the wings. Well done!
I like your high-key image but unlike the others I like the first image. I wonder what it would look like with a bit more room in the direction the head is looking but thats just me. Very well done
This is a really strong composition, the osprey's wings and central positioning work well in my opinion. Love the soft colours and toning. Prefer the repost.
Thanks again everyone. The face area is still the question mark. I like the re-post but may have to look at masking it a bit less, just to settle my curiosity.
Hi Dave, I like what you have done with this one. I prefer the repost. I wonder if masking back in only the eyes and the bill might make the head area work a little with the rest of the bird. I like the pose also. Very nice!