Original
Post Processed
In the original photo, I used white balance to emphasize the natural color of the ambient light, specifically the cool, bluish tones of the low light conditions. Instead of correcting the scene to look neutral, I allow the natural cool to remain. This fits this article’s creative approach: “To emphasize the natural color of the light rather than neutralizing it.”
I took this picture at Shoreline park. A small black and white bird is standing in rippled water right before sunset. I was drawn to the stillness of the bird and the tranquility of the water, and I wanted the photo to reflect that quiet atmosphere and the beauty of nature at dusk.
Difference Between the Original and the Edited Version:
After reviewing the image, I decided to create an edited version that warms up the white balance. While the original photo highlights the naturally cool, bluish light of the scene, the edited version introduces more orange tones to give it a subtle sunset warmth. By making this change, I shifted the mood of the picture from calm and cool to a more inviting, glowing atmosphere. This shows how white balance can be used creatively to interpret the same moment in two different emotional ways.