Single Parent

[kespada51]

I wanted to create an image showing the life of a single mother. With upcoming Mothers Day, I thought it would be perfect. I like this image but feel something is off..... This is a composite. C&C encouraged and welcome.

[Shadowman]

It would be a waste of a nice scene, but I think a major crop would be needed to emphasize the subject. Perhaps if left as is, you could increase contrast of the bird's shape.

[bnnrcn]

IMO the birds would stand out more if you position them closer to the foreground

[Barbara Ponder]

The beach scene is just beautiful! Sorry I don't have any suggestions on how to accomplish your goal.

[JohnRostron]

As a biologist, my take on your theme was rather different I'm afraid. I would say that the two birds are unrelated, and of different species. A chick of that size would be crouched down in the nesting area rather than out on the shore. You said it was a composite. Did you merge the two birds from separate shots?

I have to say, though, that if I divorce myself from my ex-professional roots it is an atmospheric shot which does embody your theme.

John

[Donald]

Composite's are fine, but I think the thing that doesn't 'fit' with this one is that it's seems a slow shutter speed to give the water effect, coupled with a faster shutter speed to capture the birds.

Now, tell me that I'm completely wrong and that that is not the composite and I'll look a right prat ... not for the first time!!

[kespada51]

Composite's are fine, but I think the thing that doesn't 'fit' with this one is that it's seems a slow shutter speed to give the water effect, coupled with a faster shutter speed to capture the birds.

Now, tell me that I'm completely wrong and that that is not the composite and I'll look a right prat ... not for the first time!!

You are absolutely correct, maybe the birds should be softer.....

[Geoff F]

My first thoughts are to have the birds a fraction lower and not central; horizontally speaking. As Binnur has mentioned.

I think we have to regard this as being more of an abstract effect to make a point than being an actual scene. A bit like a painted poster. So I don't have any problem with the birds being sharply focused amongst a dreamlike background. If anything, I think that emphasises the intended subject matter.

Particularly with the birds being so small in such an overwhelming environment.

[Texas Dave]

It is my opinion that when your create a composite of this nature you sort of leave the realm of photography and begin a venture in art that is SO open to a new list of critiques and opinions. I think every comment thus far is spot on with each author's own subjective analysis but I suspect your Mama is still gonna love it!

I sometimes also use my photography to create cards for my girlfriend and children. It's fun and adds allot to the meaning of the gesture. I really like where you're going with this.