In the original photo, the boy’s vibrant spirit of well-being is already evident as he delights in splashing the wheels of his bike through the floodwaters in front of one of the most historic and culturally valuable churches in the Philippines—San Guillermo Parish Church, regarded by many as one of the country’s most miraculous churches. It was still drizzling, yet despite the environmental conditions of the area that day, the boy remains full of resilience, further demonstrating how well adapted he is to the climatic conditions of his place. Instead of becoming sad and gloomy, he chooses to play in the rain—a perspective that reflects a person with healthy physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Through the augmented version, I was able to reveal more of his joyful heart by presenting a clearer expression, while making the overall mood of the frame more celebratory and lively. The addition of more defined drizzles and reflections, increased splashes, as well as completing the previously cut image of the Lord—to convey greater respect for the religious affiliation present in the frame—were also necessary to fully realize the concept.
