ABJanes Loc: Jersey Boy now Virginia

I tend to underexpose such shots in essence (shoot for the highlights--so the lights don't overexpose) and then manipulate the shadows & black point as needed. This shot concerned me due to the vertical banding on the left and the purple hue on the right in the trees. I have shot HDR's in camera but probably should step over the safety line and try a true HDR. I use Elements 2023-4 for PP-ing my Raw Images. Camera Nikon D7200, 35MM f/1.8, f/6.3, ISO 800, 1/80 second handheld. Should have brought my tripod instead of just my mono-pod, which I used, would have allowed for native ISO of 100. I did want the silhouetted walkers as shown.

Any thoughts?
Suggestions?

Thanks so much,
Allyn Janes
from VA

(Download)

UTMike Loc: South Jordan, UT

I think your result is beautiful!

NMGal Loc: NE NM

Looks fine to me.

Bultaco Loc: Aiken, SC

It sure looks good to me.

Bubalola Loc: Big Apple, NY

jrvinson45 Loc: Buckeye, AZ

I really like the image as presented. I wish you wouldn’t pick nits in public. I would be much more satisfied had I not read them. At this point, you’re talking yourself out of enjoying your own wonderful image. (IMHO)