B-c Night Heron

This is another beauty, David. You've got great DOF here and very nice sharpness and detail. I prefer the brighter bg in this shot. Very nicely done.

Didn't think it was possible - but this is 10X better than the previous post. I don't think the "ante" can be upped anymore. Ruffeled feathers are unreal - you can feel the wind.

- Luke

Love that wing spread Dave! The twig in the bill doesn't hurt either.

It is probably just me and my intense dislike for the invasive Brazlian Pepper, but I'd be sorely tempted to remove it by cloning the OOF part that shows on the right side of the frame.

I like the sheen you caught on the back feathers, the lovely details and the dangling feet.

A fine image as posted.

Knowing how tough these birds are to show detail, this is exceptional. I envy anyone who can handhold 500mm and actually get a subject in the frame. I agree with Mia on the Brazilian peppers in the RHC.

Knowing how tough these birds are to show detail, this is exceptional. I envy anyone who can handhold 500mm and actually get a subject in the frame. I agree with Mia on the Brazilian peppers in the RHC.

This is great David. I really like this shot with the great action. Tack sharp with great detail in the larger version. I looked at this for a long time admiring the plumage and the great red eye. I agree about Braz Pepper. Aweful stuff. Just a great shot David, well done.

All the other compliments seconded. The best part of this image though, is definitely the subdued greenish color on the head and back. The largest problem with this exposure is that the darkest part of the picture is just in front of the bird. This creates an unusual effect making it feel (for me at least) that there is not enough space in front of the bird. My eye seems to move to the bottom left corner following the arch of the bird's back. Maybe more of the nest next time.

All the other compliments seconded. The best part of this image though, is definitely the subdued greenish color on the head and back.
The largest problem with this exposure is that the darkest part of the picture is just in front of the bird. This creates an unusual effect making it feel (for me at least) that there is not enough space in front of the bird. My eye seems to move to the bottom left corner following the arch of the bird's back. Maybe more of the nest next time.

I think you have a splendid image here Dave. I like the contrasting angles between the left and right wing (with good light on both), the great look at the occipital plume, your excellent exposure on the heron, the nice sharpness tip to tip, the twig in the beak and those dangling feet. I'd have never thought of the pepper until it was mentioned. Very well done.

Very nice! Wonderful action; fine exposure; nice detail.

Very nice, David. I'm fine with the background here, including the dark portion.

Great action David!!!

Ken Archer

Great action David - love the frozen movement in the scaps and coverts

cheers
Rob

Excellent - especially like the arced wings, and that all points of the bird are in focus.