The work on this pic is all about separating the subject (the darter) from the background. This adds depth to the image (giving it a sort of 3D quality) and concentrates the viewer’s attention on the bird. Adjustments include cropping in slightly to tighten up the composition, vignetting the image a little (darkening the borders), adding some negative clarity to the background, some contrast to the wing feathers and a little lightening and sharpness of the face and beak. Yes, we could take it a little further, but at some point you have to call it a day – and in any case, the last thing you want to do is ‘overcook’ the pic, particularly with regard to sharpening and saturation.