Smile, Snap, Pop!

[SandeeWig]

From the practice portrait session the other day in the park with my dear friend, I thought this shot was pretty good in its original form. However, the colors seem a bit dull. I like the dof but want her to really pop out of the frame without looking too processed. I'm hoping I have achieved that, but I would really appreciate your honest comments, critique and suggestions.

Before (SOOC):


After minor adjustments in levels, curves, color balance and brightness/contrast.


Is it too much?!

Thanks so much for looking!

[dlaf]

I do think it wound up being over processed. I went for a more natural look by

1. boosting the saturation to bring more warmth to her face
2. desaturating and darkening the yellows that were bright enough to be a distraction from the face.
3. adding a vignette to darken the background a bit more.

I'm sure your friend will like the shot either way. You captured a wonderful, natural smile.

From DPS Posts

[SandeeWig]

Thanks so much, Debbie! I like your version much better. I agree, the yellow bars in the background were a little distracting...

I really appreciate your comments and taking the time to edit/repost.

[SurfinSandy]

do you know how to do selective coloring? I wonder if you could take a copy of your favorite post processed version, then do a selective coloring type thing with it so you could completely desaturate the bars in the background.
It might work.
I like each version you've done, so it's up to you to pick.... I do agree if you could take more attention off the bars it would help. If not, the later version should be just fine.
Do you know about using actions in photoshop? I just found this group in flickr, and there are free actions offered thru it and a blog. I had never tried actions before, but am really enjoying these. It takes a lot of sweat out of the process yet still gives you creative control.
Coffee Shop Free actions for Photoshop and Elements

The portrait itself has so much lovely expression. It's definitely is worth finding a fix you really like to compliment it. (she reminds me of a good friend of mine!).