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Proper Bird Motion Style

Discussion

2 replies
Posted by Jeff Seldomridge on February 28, 2010 at 1:14 AM
Proper Bird Motion Style
I took this photo today of a Bald Eagle leaving his perch over a small river. The photo was taken at 1/500 and the ends of his wings are blurred. Does this blurring add motion to the photo or does it detract because it is not in focus? I can see it both ways. What are others opinions?
Posted by Nate Chappell on February 28, 2010 at 1:53 AM
Hi Jeff, I don't think there is a "proper" bird motion style. Both images that have razor sharp wings and are taken at high shutter speeds and images that show motion like your eagle shot can be attractive imo. If you would like critique on this particular image you should probably post it in the avian critique gallery as well.
Posted by Erik Van de Water on February 28, 2010 at 11:22 PM
I would say that having less motion in this particular image would be better. The bird's left wing is moving faster than the right wing, creating an imbalance. Mostly bad luck. With certain images it can certainly improve the composition. Having more wing blur will give you a more unique look than the standard freeze-action shots that I have seen. Choosing to have motion blur in this image was definitely the right decision.