Gray Goose

6 years 9 months ago #536613 by Coach_1
My first b&w photo. Shot a big Canada Goose. How'd I do?


Attachments:
,
6 years 9 months ago #536625 by garyrhook
We like this; well done. For me, good composition and tonal range.

I think you could relax the depth of the shadows. I can't see the eye, or the feathers on the head and neck. The bright end could be brought up a bit, for me.

Good capture, and good job.


Photo Comments
,
6 years 9 months ago #536626 by Shadowfixer1
I agree with Hook.
,
6 years 9 months ago #536651 by Coach_1
How's this?


Attachments:
,
6 years 9 months ago #536682 by garyrhook
You're moving in the right direction, but more. I need to be able to see the goose's right eye, and I'd like to discern feather texture in the dark area. I like that the overall image is brighter.


Photo Comments
,
6 years 9 months ago #536685 by Coach_1
Lightened it again and cleaned it up a little. 


Attachments:
,
6 years 9 months ago #536778 by garyrhook
Now, I prefer that over the previous edits.

But wait, there's more! Only because... there is.

I was just reading an article (a few days ago) bemoaning B&W images as now being to contrasty, and having no grays. Your mileage may vary. In the context of this image, however, have you considered:
  • Examine the histogram of the image. Does the range of tones extend as far as you'd like?
  • Is the weighting of each portion of the range suitable? This alludes to Adams' zone system, which I think is a worthwhile thing to be familiar with.
  • Have you consider spot adjustments? For example, you could increase the constrast in the features, but leave the grass alone. You can work on the head and neck of the foreground bird to get appropriate drama without messing with the rest of the body. As long as everything is consistent, of course.
  • You could brighten the eye enough to really grab your attention.
  • Clarity could be used to make the goose pop more.
  • You could add a gradient exposure adjustment to the background to give the image additional depth.
  • Dodging and burning on the goose to increase drama and draw the eye to the parts of the image you want to emphasize.
You don't need to do any of that. I'm only throwing out ideas that occur to me as I look at this. The question is, are you achieving your goals? Is my kibbitzing ruining your intent?


Photo Comments
,
6 years 7 months ago #544010 by Alyssa Briggs
I should try this one too. Nice B & W! Thanks Gary for the advice. 


,
6 years 4 months ago #559159 by Lauren Grant
The second one is way better. 


,

817.3K

241K

  • Facebook

    817,251 / Likes

  • Twitter

    241,000 / Followers

  • Google+

    1,620,816 / Followers

Latest Reviews

The Fujifilm XT5 is a 40MP mirrorless camera capable of 6.2K video at 30p. With those specs, it’s an ideal choice for photographers needing a camera to pull double duty for imaging and video.

Apr 25, 2024

The Canon EOS R100 is an entry-level mirrorless camera introduced in 2023. But just because it’s an entry-level camera doesn’t mean it’s a bare-bones camera. Find out why in this review!

Apr 22, 2024

Nikon’s retro-looking Nikon Zfc is anything but retro. Under its classic body is a host of features and amenities that make it a worthwhile compact mirrorless camera for 2024.

Apr 15, 2024

The Canon EOS R50 is one of the newest R-system cameras from Canon. Is it worth your money? Find out all the details you need to know in this comprehensive review.

Apr 10, 2024

Forum Top Posters

Latest Articles

To fill the frame means to expand the footprint of the subject in your shot. Get in close, zoom in, crop the image, or use other techniques to bring the subject to the forefront.

May 06, 2024

With these simple yet effective beginner photography tips, you can avoid some of the common mistakes beginners make and get improved results with your images.

May 06, 2024

Urban photography is a genre showcasing features in urban settings. You can photograph people, architecture, mass transit, and many other subjects. Learn how to do so in this guide!

Apr 30, 2024

The Nikon D850 might be an older DSLR, but it was ahead of its time when it debuted in 2017. That means it still has plenty of firepower to compete with today’s powerful mirrorless cameras.

Apr 30, 2024

The best beginner camera isn’t the same for everyone. That means having choice is of the utmost importance. In this guide, explore five excellent beginner camera options for 2024 and beyond.

Apr 25, 2024

Child portrait photography is a unique undertaking requiring special skills and talents to get the best results. Start mastering this photography niche with these essential tips!

Apr 25, 2024

The Fujifilm XT5 is a 40MP mirrorless camera capable of 6.2K video at 30p. With those specs, it’s an ideal choice for photographers needing a camera to pull double duty for imaging and video.

Apr 25, 2024

Using leading lines in photography helps improve the composition by drawing viewers in and leading their eye from the foreground to the background. Explore some fine examples of this in this guide!

Apr 24, 2024