Scaup Hen riding the wave in quiet water

[Randy Stout]

This young lady was imaged this AM, quiet, still morning. I liked the matching colors in the water, reflection, clean water. Interesting cropping options, as I needed a fair amount of vertical because of the reflection, didn't want to go too square, so left a fair amount on the right. I could crop tighter from the left, but likd the wake action and colors there. Your thoughts on the crop appreciated.

D4 600VR f/6.3 1/1600s ISO 500 Gitzo/Wimberley

Post: Selective sharpening, crop for comp, minor water clean up (few small spots)

Cheers

Randy


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[Karl Egressy]

Wow, the reflection is just as sharp as the original. Although the back of the head looks a little dark it is an excellent shot, Randy.

[Randy Stout]

Thanks Karl:

The light was well off to the right, but the reflection was so good, and the water so clean, I still liked it. I have attached a slight recropping, which I think has a bit better balance.

Cheers

Randy

[John Cooper]

A wonderful reflection Randy and I quite like the angled lighting that gives some modelling to the Scaup hen. The matching chocolate colour of the hen and the water work well here and adds impact. I think your repost gives a tad stronger composition . A very tranquil image that i wouldn't mind hanging on the wall..!!

[dankearl]

You could turn it upside down and hardly know it, the reflection is so good.
Very nice water and wake in front of the scaup and the usual nice IQ.

[Shawn Zierman]

Gorgeous image. Reflection is a 10 of 10.
Prefer the spacious OP, but either image "works" imo.

[Satish Ranadive]

Randy Sir:
Marvelous image.Both the compositions are very nice,personally I liked second one.
Love the wonderful reflection and water pearl on lady behind the neck.Rest as usual magnificent.

Regards,
Satish.

[Jim Crosswell]

Excellent image Randy! I like the reflection, IQ, sharpness and calm water. I find it a bit tight at the top. I tried a version with more room at the top and liked it, although it did make it a bit more square. Still a beauty as presented.

[Maya Raut]

I liked the repost..Love the wave in water, reflection, sharpness and IQ...very well done.

[Bill Dix]

Love that bow wave. Great reflection. I like both comps, although I agree with Jim that I'm wanting just a tad more on top. Maybe the repost, with just a little added top and right?? A fine shot in any case.

[Randy Stout]

Thanks everyone:

Lots of ways to crop this one, so appreciate your input!

Cheers

Randy

[gail bisson]

Hi Randy,
The thumbnail doesn't do this justice.
I like the Op the best.
I feel it needs a bit of CW rotation.
Great exposure on the blacks and whites and a killer reflection.
Well done,
Gail