Shawn, good ps work lightening the eye area. However, now that i have seen this version, i think i like the original better. (sorry, my fault). With the image lightened up, it becomes apparent that the struggle with the chain has less to do with freedom and more to do with the curious nature of the elephant - he/she has spotted somthing on the ground and it is trying to investigate. That's how I read it, i am sorry for making you waste your time.
Thank you so much for your comment and suggestion. Would you consider the attached photo any better? I adjusted the levels around the eye and on the trunk, making the area much clearer.
Shawn, you have captured this well. The framing is quite good, the strap from the seat and the texture of the skin are great, they add to the turmoil and create that feeling of sympathy. the only area i might try to work on is the eye of the beast. because i can't see the face esp. the eye clearly, i find i look at the poor animal as an object. if you can touch up the levels selectively in that area, may be it will help the viewer identify with the animal more intimately.
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{K:88111} 4/5/2005