Lazuli Bunting.

[dankearl]

A total grab shot in a prairie type wetland here.
I saw the Bunting land and just fired two shots before it flew.
A "small" in the frame photo, I was thrilled to see one, they are not very common where I live.
Only the second one I have ever seen.
In a perfect world, this would be a set up , however there were OOF grasses in front and I did
the best I could to save this photo.
It is still nice for me and I am happy to have one!

1/2500, f6.3, iso1000, 600mm (300 w/2x) D800 Handheld.
Tried to remove oof grass (tough to do) and this is a large crop!

DSC_5426bp.jpg (http://www.birdphotographers.net/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=128573&stc=1&d=1369011314)

[dankearl]

The out of camera raw converted to jpeg.
I obviously wanted this badly, maybe too much?

DSC_5426bp2.jpg (http://www.birdphotographers.net/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=128574&stc=1&d=1369011804)

[Arthur Morris]

IQ held up nicely with the large crop. For me the main issue is the head angle.... Love the setting.

[Karl Egressy]

Nice setting great looking bird. I was wondering if it could have taken a little tighter crop, Dan.

[Mike Landwehr]

A unique composition with a beautiful subject. All things considered, you've done a very nice job of creating a pleasing image. I love the combination of greens, blues and whites. The rusty coloration in the bunting's breast are beautifully matched with the same color in the flowers. You've done an excellent job of removing distracting elements. The foreground grass located at the center of the lower edge does keep pulling my eyes away from the subject, however. I wonder if it should be blurred or removed?

[Marina Scarr]

THis image would have been even more powerful with a better HA, but I imagine you already know that. I also like the original frame to tell you the truth. With a few tweaks it could be an interesting as well. Your colors in this image and the blooms are really stunning. Good job on your cloning.

[jack williamson]

HA already mentioned. Beautiful bird and environment. I like the environment enough to maybe play with an even looser crop. I hope you get to see this bird again.

Jack

[adrian dancy]

Nice image except for head angle. It is a pitty the head wasn't pointing in the direction of the body with the bird singing...then it would have been a killer image.

[David Salem]

Nice capture of this beautiful colorful little bird. Nice detail considering the crop. Saw one for the first time a few weeks ago. Very nice.

[Robert Holguin]

Sweet shot.
I really like how the branches frame the bird.
Wonderful background, very nice lighting, and great IQ despite the large crop.
Well done.