06 More Structure
To start with, I’m adding some fine, localised contrast to the image with the Structure slider. This gives the objects in a picture much more definition without affecting the overall contrast. It’s very powerful, so take a moment to choose a setting that’s effective but doesn’t make the picture look too artificial.
07 Selective Adjustments
I’ve also added some control points to lighten up some of the buildings. It adds a bit of texture and interest to the centre of the picture, which is where your eyes are drawn by the composition.
08 Burn Edges
Finally, I’ve used the Burn Edges tool in the Finishing Adjustments panel to darken both the top and bottom edges of the picture. I do this a lot to give a kind of ‘framing’ effect to black and white shots and add a little contrast. The Size slider controls how far into the frame the darkening effect applies, the Strength slider controls the degree of darkening, and the Transition slider controls how smoothly the darkening effect is blended in with the rest of the image.
09 The finished picture
This is much closer to what I had in my mind’s eye when I saw and composed this picture. It’s got the strong, dramatic contrast I wanted and a perfectly symmetrical appearance around the horizon line to make the most of that reflection in the water.