Aqua Flower

[Brendan Dozier]

Took some more epiphyllum (cactus flower) images, and after inverting and adjusting hue and color balance, it started to remind me a little bit of an underwater scene. The stamen seemed almost as if it could be coral, so I tried to bring that out, as well as an overall aqua marine feel. Experimented with different Nik Color EFEX pro filters. Don't remember every one I used, but the main ones I think were, Photo Stylizer, Color Stylizer, Darken / Lighten Center and Tonal Contrast. Also used some Topaz Detail, lots of touching up and experimenting with selective color adjustments.

[Brendan Dozier]

Here's the before image

[Cheryl Slechta]

Brendan, what a transformation! It really does look like an underwater scene. Nicely processed.

[John Storjohann]

It looks like the stained glass interpretation of an underwater scene to my eye...and it is beautifully unique. A complex, carefully crafted composition...it would be interesting to see what a low-opacity layer of Topaz->Simplify->BuzzSim might do. Well done!

[Brendan Dozier]

Thanks, Cheryl and John! Much appreciated. I added some Simplify/ buzzsim per John, good call, I think colors look better and additional softness adds to stained glass look.

[Dennis Bishop]

I like the original, but it just keeps getting better. The Simplified version is beautiful. Very nice composition and the colors are just off the chart. A cactus flower . . . Who woulda thought.

[Jay Sheinfield]

Brendan, +1 on the previous comments...........the comp is wonderful, great flow and lines. The more subtle tones of the OP are more my cup of tea.

[Mark Fuge]

Very nice image and application, Brendon.

Like all of the images. But the second after is a defininate keeper!

[Bob Miller]

Hi Brendan....amazing transformation! I vote for the second post although all are nice!

[denise ippolito]

Brendan, The original capture is fantastic but the repost of your creative image is off the charts! I would frame it and hang it!!

[Judy Howle]

I agree with the previous comments! I love the composition, texture and the colors are outstanding. The repost is also my favorite.

[Julie Kenward]

This is so well done Brendan and wow, what a color scheme! It's so tranquil and it really makes me want to stare at it for hours.