Mule Deer

[terrib]

Several deer pics lately so I thought I'd share these. We have so many trees that it's hard to get a clear shot of these deer. Add the lighting issues and waiting for a good pose and I'm rarely successful. I rather like this first one except that I'd prefer more space in front of him. I cropped out a large fuzzy Aspen in the left foreground. The second one has obvious lighting issues.

[botspur]

Terri don't be too hard on yourself you have some good images there, #1 has good detail and environment and the lack of space doesn't really bother me. #2 "lighting issues" aside it still has a good composition. Patience will be rewarded - keep shooting.

[Bobobird]

I like both with a bit of preference for 1 though I do like the pose in 2.

Not sure of the outcome but try a bit of additional contrast and sharpening.

[conkerwood]

I agree with Bobo in terms of preference but I think the second is largely recoverable. (If you already know what I am describing then I apologise) Firstly duplicate the layer. Then darken the top layer and tweek the contrast to get the best out of the overbright back area. Then using a layer mask merge the darkened area with the original foreground. Flatten. The again duplicate the layer and sharpen. Then using a layer mask layer in the sharpened foreground, and midground so that they pop out more against the blurred background. Hope this helps

Peter

[terrib]

Thank you Clive, Bobo and Peter for your encouraging and helpful comments.

Peter, thanks for the detailed instructions. I will see if I can figure out how to accomplish this. It will be great practice for me in my continued exploration of Photoshop Elements. I'll post my results later.