We have accepted this photo, as it belongs to the category of digitally manipulated photos. Could you add somewhat more information on the photo-editing you applied?

Regards, Vincent

👏👏

Of course. I didn't like the background of this photo (it was a vivid green caused by lily pads and other foliage) so I decided to make it a little more artistic using masks. I masked the background and lowered the exposure until it was completely black and then used gradient filters to give a more feathered edge to the cut out.

Ok thanks! I like the result. Only the details are a bit soft. I think that some sharpening could improve the photo.

Regards, Vincent

Yes, I believe after exporting it to birdpix-acceptable size it needs resharpening. At full size it is tack sharp with all the feather detail present.

Rembrandtesque!
Nice!

Kind regards Fons Hoiting