How does this PP work?

[Karl Johnston]

I haven't had much response to this shot, how do you honestly think of the shot? C&C required.
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2480/3564205552_6f1f5cb49f_b.jpg

I added an orton effect and bumped the exposure in DPP by a stop or two

[canonnoob]

honestly i think it kills the image. i would rather have the exposure come down just a tad.

[lindsaytblum]

The birds are lovely. The detail in the wings are gorgeous. I think the water is the problem. It's kind of hard to focus on the birds (especially the second bird) with the water being so bright. Especially in the top third of the photograph...

You bumped "up" the exposure? Was the original too underexposed?

[Karl Johnston]

Aight I'll go back to the drawing board with it.

I'm trying out different effects since I recently got photoshop.

The original was evenly exposed, but bland looking IMO. I was trying to make the impression of the pelicans being "Angelic" or "Ethereal" (the picture name is Ethereal Glow).

Thank you!

[canonnoob]

why not just try adding some contrast

[Karl Johnston]

It would look too unnatural, I'll just tone the exposure down and try again.

[Roy Mathers]

It doesn't do much for me I'm afraid Karl.

[Karl Johnston]

No worries, it's nice hearing how a fresh set of eyes sees it.

I really like it, ironically.. but that's besides the point :lol:

[AgafiaL]

I like the puffy dream kind of look.

[meganparkerphoto]

The water is really distracting with the birds over top. Just seems like my eye doesn't know what it's suppose to be focused on.