Nice shot Randy, I would suggest lowering the highlights on the head, I think this would make a significant difference. Normally I would have suggested a lower angle would have been better but I note your point regarding the reflection.
Thanks for the input guys. I really appreciate it.
I believe the relative lightness of the head is a side effect of the flash. The blacks were almost blocked, but the head really did come up. I didn't do any selective brightening of the head, but will revisit it and see if I can adjust its relative brightness a bit.
I was as low as I could get at that venue without shooting through a chain link fence. It would have been at a 45 degree angle to the fence, and lots of image degradation.
I had a minute to do some selective curves work on the head only. Put the curves indicator on the head, pulled it down to -45, put hide all mask on that layer and painted back in the desired effect with a soft brush.
A wonderful image, Randy. The repost works better for me -- the slightly darker head makes it pop better against the bright water in the background. Great detail and love the water droplets. I would have wished for a lower angle but as you mentioned this is what's possible when you where shooting.
Hi Randy, this angle works for me, and I like your overall comp with placement. Sometimes less space all round tends to work too. You have brought out the finer detail nicely, sharp, and your repost with the subtle adjustment to head looks good. Just love the colour of the water.
Randy, repost is definitely better. the red head and that gorgeous water make it for me. excellent portrait. A little too pano for me though..but thats personal preference. Awesome details and light.