Standing Alone

Focusing on the cattail seems to simplify an otherwise messy backdrop. I pushed the exposure as high as I dare to bring the elements closer together in tone. I felt that better reflected the bright, rather hazy light of the day. The sky is still not blown out and didn't have any detail anyway.

I include the extra only as a matter of record: a five shot focus stack, mainly for practice. At this angle, I didn't take enough shots, not appreciating all the different planes involved. To be fair, it's hard to see on the camera. The result goes in and out of focus through the image.

Extra: Stacked.