Sword Fight

[WooD]

I started out with a SOOC .jpg.

First I cloned out the sign middle left, and the chain fence.

Created a Gradient Map layer adjusted to taste, and did a touch of masking.
I actually did this 3 times.

Created a new Curves layer, and did a bit more masking.
I did this 2 times.

Added a Chanel Mixer layer.

Merged all this together.

Then added a lens flare on the swords.

Finished off with a Gaussian Blur layer set to 1.6, then adjusted the opacity to 35%.

[foxor]

Nice job with the colouring and removal of the fence. I find the lens flare distracting, however. Personally if you want to draw some more attention to the swords I would be tempted to handle them separately from the rest of the picture (ie. new layer with layer mask) and make them more silvery-glowy overall rather than just at that one meeting point. Personal preference I guess, I just find that one bright spot distracting and unrealistic looking.

[ryandaleySD]

With so much processing done to the background and none done to the subjects, the overall look of this photo looks off.

It feels like the subjects need to be in the photo more. Right now they seem unconnected to the photo if that makes sense.

[WooD]

Originally Posted by ryandaleySD

With so much processing done to the background and none done to the subjects, the overall look of this photo looks off.

It feels like the subjects need to be in the photo more. Right now they seem unconnected to the photo if that makes sense.

I've tried to get them more into the background, but it's tough to do without loosing too much detail in their faces.

Here's another edit.

[Jennifleur79]

I think I prefer your second edit

[daddyoproductions]

I prefer the second edit too, however, they do look like they were cut and pasted...their contrast level is too low compared to the background I think.