Sky / Land exposure differences

[loopguru]

I am trying to adjust the sky exposure to be a bit darker to bring out the contrast and color more and wanting to isolate the remainder of the scene. Below is the result. I am not particularly pleased so any tips please let me know what techniques you would use to acheive this. Thanks

 

[mentos_007]

well... I dunno if it should be here or in a gallery... but in PS it is mainly playing with levels and curves. I see that you tried to do something - the backside effect is seen in the trees (just where the sky starts below the trees ) If I had to play with it I'd use mask tool and guide it there where the water starts and the grass ends. It is tough, but sometimes the effort is worth... btw first of all you need to straighten the horizon!

 

[loopguru]

I was looking for some pointers on adjusting tones and colours and better techniques at masking than the lasso or magnetic lasso tools.

Another futile attempt: