Tractor Help

[Ben Holder]

Nikon D5000, 18mm, (1/5", 1/20", 1/80"), f/18, ISO-200, HDR

This is my first attempt at using HDR to get more detail in shadows and highlights. I am wondering if you guys think this photo is too...bland? I tried really hard not to over tone map it - I didn't want it to look cartoonish. All C&C would be a big help including anything on composition etc. Thanks guys.

Attached is a full screen version.

[IABoomer]

I think it has a good natural look to it. It's an old tractor. The paint isn't going to be bright and vibrant and rich. It's going to be weathered and flat. I think the trees and the sky pop nicely without being overdone. There aren't any bothersome halo effects. I think the processing hit the mark. Nicely done.

In terms of composition, the branch poking out on the right side bothers me. Otherwise, it's a nice angle on the tractor, both from the perspective of front vs. side and from a height perspective. There's just enough ground to anchor it and contrast with the sky.

[Ben Holder]

Thank you for the comments. I agree, I wish I had noticed that branch when I was taking the photo. Do you think I should try cloning it out in Photoshop and seeing if it is noticeable?

[IABoomer]

Cloning it out might be somewhat painful. CS5's content-aware fill does a fairly good job removing it. I suppose that, plus some spot-healing might make it go away without being too obvious.

[Ben Holder]

I ended up being able to clone and patch it out without too much trouble because the leaves in the background are slightly out of focus anyway. I'm pretty sure you can't even tell it was there. Let me know what you think.

[IABoomer]

Well done. I'd call that one a keeper.