Re-processed Image: Pleiades - Redo

[JSBach1801]

I went back and processed this again with more of the light frames. My first attempt only had 100 light frames. This one has 200.

The reason I only did 100 the first time is because I was getting some serious (and nasty) color gradients with all frames included. From light pollution I assumed. I had difficulty getting them under control, so I decided to used less (but cleaner) frames. However, I think the issue was that I was being too aggressive with my stretching in Photoshop. This time I stretched in very small increments and dealt with any gradient issues as soon as they started to appear and before they became serious issues. It was more tedious to do, but I think the results were well worth it. Less noise too.

I also toned down the background stars some. I felt like they were overpowering and distracting a little.

Thoughts?

Before and after:

Click here for a higher resolution version: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GWrngS ... sp=sharing

[ApophisAstros]

Both good , i prefer the one on left.
Thanks.
Rog.

[JSBach1801]

Both good , i prefer the one on left.
Thanks.
Rog.

Really!? Hmm... That's quite interesting to me and gives me something to think about. I appreciate the feedback!

[Jockinireland]

I think thats a definite improvement. Perhaps the black point is a a little too high, making the background very black and probably losing some of the fainter nebulae. But considering that its still less than 2 hours total I think thats a very respectable image.

[Juno16]

Hi JSB,

David @Jockinireland sums it up well.
Can’t beat either process for the amount of time invested. In capturing anyway! I’m sure you’re spent over 2 hours in processing (as most of us do).
Actually, a blend of the two might hit the “sweet” spot.
Either image in nice. Well done!

[messier 111]

I don't take photos, so I only look at people's photos.
I find that the first is still the most beautiful to watch.
the nebulosity is better defined in my opinion.

[JSBach1801]

Thank you, all. Very interesting feedback. I was trying to correct "issues" I had with the first image, and I may have over done it. I think I need to step away from this for a while, then come back to it in a week or so, and see what happens.

[Makuser]

Hi Lyle. I like both versions. The new version has more contrast but the first version has more beautiful emission blue nebulosity. As Juno16 (Jim) said, maybe blending the two may be worth a try. Thanks for sharing this re-processed version with us Lyle and I always enjoy images of M42.

[Juno16]

Thank you, all. Very interesting feedback. I was trying to correct "issues" I had with the first image, and I may have over done it. I think I need to step away from this for a while, then come back to it in a week or so, and see what happens.

Taking a break is part of processing for me.
Many times, I just tweak and end up over-tweaking until I think it looks good.
The next morning, I open the image and either it pops or I think “where was I going with this”.
Breaks are good!