Learning As I Go

Jake (71306) before correction

This week’s assignment is to pick one of my many photos from last week that I did not post.  I’m supposed to evaluate it and offer my own critique of three of its strengths and weaknesses or areas for improvement.

The photo I chose to critique is of Jake.  You’ll notice I’ve done a great job of capturing Jake’s personality.  It’s hard to tell he’s a Rottweiler mix by this photo because I’ve caught him in his playful mood.  Jake is very playful and needs someone who can give him the time and space he needs to play.  I’ve also done a great job of showcasing the catch lights in his eyes and focusing on his face.  With this picture, who wouldn’t want to take Jake home?  

The biggest weakness I notice in this photo is the yellow cast of the photo.  I’ve corrected the cast this week so the focus is now completely on Jake, with a truer color presentation.   I did this by going back into Photoshop and correcting the color balance of highlights, shadows, and mid-tones.  By increasing the opposite colors of these balances, I was able to correct the color in this image.  I've also gone into my camera (or rather, Professor Johnstone has) and corrected the way the white balance is read from custom (I would set it up) to auto (the camera sets it up automatically).  The reason for this change is the light changes from area to area at the sheter, and also if I'm photographing outside.  This should mean that I would need to make less improvements through Photoshop.  Another area for improvement actually had to do with sizing this photo for the internet.  I have since corrected this problem so you will see the entire photo, whether on your smart phone or your wide-screen desktop computer screen.

Jake (71306) after correction

Also something worth noting this week is that the Shelter is offering a Mem"aww"rial Day Special on their fees this weekend.  Here's the link to this weekend's fees:  http://www.wakegov.com/pets/events/default.htm

More good news.  After checking the Shelter's website for adoptable pets http://services.wakegov.com/adoptiongallery/ it appears Jake found a home!  Congratulations Jake.  I hope you enjoy many years of happiness with your new family.