Texture layer created in Photoshop: The rusty wall was painted over in using multiple cloud and paint brushes, pulling the colours from the wall but adjusting with a hue/saturation mask.
The texture was combined with the Heron and various other layers, with the final touch being a slightly offset duplicate copy of the heron, set as a spot light layer to add a touch of movement.
Witty's Lagoon on a very low tide, colour corrected and straightened... always straightened.
I envisioned was an early morning scene, complete with a touch of fog drifting over the lake. Unfortunately, Mother Nature forgot the fog and the camera didn’t capture it that way—but thankfully, Photoshop came to the rescue!
A few Photoshop skills and presets unlock unlimited creative opportunities. Because I rarely feel satisfied with an edit right away, I let my work sit for days or weeks. I will let this piece simmer before deciding if it earns a permanent spot in my collection.
Dusted off a few old Lightroom brushes - thanks for the inspiration Lucy!
Playing with Dodge and Burn and a colour gradient layered on top!