I really consider all of my photography art, as most photographers do. But sometime I come up with something that definitely stirs my creative juices. I submit the following photos for your consideration. The first, or my before picture, is another of the American Kestrel images that I shot a couple of days ago. The second, is after doing a bit of tone-mapping with PhotoMatix. I like the three-dimensional feeling that it gives.
The picture isn’t about the American Kestrel. It is just about a bird in a tree. I like the simplicity of it, just the tree with a bird perched in it, against a clear sky. I like the patterns of the tree branches, with the bird providing a splash of color. I’d like to hear what you think about it. Click on either image to see an enlargement.
"Bird in Tree" before tone-mapping
"Bird in Tree" after tone-mapping
Happy Birding””
Texas Tweeties by Bob Zeller 
The second photograph is stunning Bob….no comparison. The tone mapping is amazing…..
Thanks, Johnny. I agree, but I don’t know if I could duplicate it. 🙂
Beautiful, Bob. The image puts me in mind of an oriental painting on a silk kimono. Very appealing.
Thanks, Cindy,
I am proud of it, too, however I don’t know if I could duplicate it. But maybe it is best, just to have that only one of a kind.
Bob, I love the original photo for all that you mentioned, simplicity, the “pop” of colour from the bird, the patterns of the branches. Since I am both a photographer and work in computer graphics, I can appreciate what you’ve done to it in the second instance, but I usually (personally) draw a line there, the first one is photography, the second if art 🙂 Keep experimenting, I like the creative juices that are flowing.
You’re exactly right. The first photo was photography, for the sake of photographing the American Kestrel. The second one was created strictly for the sake of art.
Wow – what a difference in the photos. The first one is good anyway, but the second one kind of reaches out and talks to you! Great effect!
Thanks so much, Barb. I appreciate the kind words.
In the mind of this humble photography neophyte, the combination of camera and post-processing can be used to produce two results: (1) as accurate a reproduction of the scene as possible and (2) an artistic rendition based on the scene but not an precise reproduction of it. (Of course, art usually enters the first case in its composition, but the result is nevertheless a faithful reproduction of the scene.)
You have shown us very nice examples of each of these. The (cold, non-artistic) scientist in me probably appreciates the first image more. But the second one is certainly intriguing.
Hi Dwynn. I am glad to hear your response. I couldn’t have put it any different.
Certainly, if I am representing it as a image of an American Kestrel, for bird ID information, etcetera, the first would be my prime image.
The second, I don’t even refer to it as an American Kestrel. I have just rendered it as a work of art, such as a painting, and I have named it simply, “Bird in Tree”. I have already framed a 12×16 print, and offered it for sale.
It is exquisite..I paint wildlife on stone, and appreciate your simplicity of the bare tree and its graceful lines and the warmth of the bird..Excellent composition and love the mapping.
Thank you very much, Syl. I appreciate your comments. I wasn’t sure at first how it would look, but it definitely is growing on me. I was hoping that others, like you, would see it as I do.
I love the 3D depth but not so much the halos around the branches
Thank you, and I understand your point. But it is the slight halo that provides the 3D effect. 🙂
The photo is beautiful just by itself, but the 2nd photo is fascinating! I love the effect – looks like I should be able to reach out and feel the texture in the branches. VERY nice!! 🙂
Thanks, Holly. That’s the feeling I get, too. 🙂
Hi Bob, I love it!
The crafter in me sees embroidery. Interesting effect. 🙂
Thanks, Rose. I see what you’re talking about. 🙂
Have mercy! Fantastic, Bob!
Thanks, Toby, I’m glad you like it. 🙂