Royal Tern Banking

[Lyle Gruby]

Shot this immature tern in Galveston. I walked about a mile down the beach and found a colony relaxing and bathing. I slowly approached over the course of about 45 minutes. The terns acquiesced and allowed me a few flight shots. Full frame, added some canvas to the bottom. All C&C appreciated.

Techs:
Nikon D7000
200-400 @ 400 HH
f/8
ISO 500
1/3200
Manual exposure mode

[Karl Egressy]

Nice flight shot, Lyle. I like the fanned tail and the position of the far wing. The close wing is not ideal but is good none the less. The line of horizon is slanting towards the right. I don't know if it is the correct one for the place.

[Marina Scarr]

Good critique by Karl. It does look as though your horizon is off. Love the far wing but the near wing, not so much, and the bird appears to be flying away from you. If you had clicked a few seconds before this one, you may well have gotten him heading toward you before the turn which would have lent itself to a more pleasing image. Also love that fanned tail.

[vishaljadhav]

Sharp inflight image, i think you already have a some good suggestions above

[PhilCook]

Agree with suggestions above, but a very nice shot on these fast moving birds....even have a catch light in the eye

[Cheryl Arena Molennor]

Comments above reflect my view point as well. Your image is nice and sharp but would be more pleasing if the bird was flying toward you and the horizon was straight.