Having closely compared both versions, I actually like the original the better. I prefer the softer effect of the lighting. I admit the bird's color here is slightly enhanced, but the light is too harsh.

(That'll teach you not to meddle with perfection!)

:-)
Anastasia

I agree with Anastasia, the softer lighting in the original was better. However, you can see the details better in this one.

I didnt see the other one, but I really like what I see here...what a fantastic shot...love the exposure. First thought I had when I saw it...Is this real? has a mystical illustrative feel. Very awesome. Great work!

This is interesting. ONLY the bird itself was selected and changed. If you view the original and the revision in a program that will let you jump back and forth, nothing else changes! By the way, one such program is Irfanview, which is a free downloadable program. Strange name, but very useful for viewing, organizing, and doing mass conversions of photos from one type (extension) to another, such as converting a bunch of bitmaps to jpegs. I love it.

That is the point. I prefer the revised version. The bird is more outstanding now, we can see more of its colours and the head. But you were so lucky to have such a beautiful background. To tell you the truth it is so interesting that once you open the full size you spend much time investigating every detail. High marks from me.

Great work on this :-) :-)

I've had bosses give me that look before! LOL. The capture is terrific, regardless of which version one prefers. Excellent work!

This is a really beautiful capture! The lighting and clarity is awesome...most excellent and high marks from me!

Amazing shot. Amazing capture! Its in my favorites. I didn't see your original but you did a super job on this one! Kudos to you on this one!
Carol

Lovely photo. I love how the bird almost seems to camouflage into its environment. The waterfall in the background makes this a spectacular shot.

very beautiful picture... i like colors and composition.

I didn't see the original but I really like this. Shooting in these shady patches on a bright day really livens up colors that might be washed out in the sun. The waterfall and dark, wet rocks are a beautiful backdrop.

Seriously effective shot, Bruce... in fact it's darn near pefection!!! The counterplays of highlight and shadow on the ferns, trunk and bird really emphasise the centre of interest and I'm especially glad you enhanced the colours on the 'duck'. Your photo would make a superb reference picture for a watercolour. May I ask for your permission to use it (for my own pleasure), please?

i think this is a beautiful picture.congrats.simon

What a phenomenal background with the falls! For me, I saw the bird last...I was fascinated by the falls and the light. Is it just me or does that bird have only one leg? What an outstanding photo!