Often when I am shooting nature images, I take a lot of photos, with the thought of later editing mostly for clarity, retaining the story as is. And then there are the times when I chose to edit the story itself:
ISO 640 85mm f/16 1/500sec
In this original file, I think the story includes the protective nature of both the adult swans. My edit includes just one:
ISO 640 85mm f/16 1/500sec
I’ve taken a lot of liberties with color as well. The result is a completely different story. In this new image, the row of cygnets is much more important. From that, the lines and textures in the water and on the birds become elements that are more dominant than they were in the original file.
If you are wondering about the backstory of this photo, it was taken in June 2018 at a small lake near where I live. The cygnets who were born in this clutch did not make it to maturity. The adults are still on the lake and within the last week, I am fairly certain have constructed a new nest.
What do you think of the liberties I have taken with this story? Feel free to leave a comment below.
Cheers!
Added to A Photo a Week Challenge: Getting Your Ducks in a Row.
Picfair version is here.
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