Lady Merlin in a Spotlight

[Phoo Chan]

This shot was a result over a span of 3 unfruitful weekends plan - a "SPEED HUMPS 15 MPH" warning sign was visible from the shooting position (along a steep slope) which view can be lined up against a dry tree branch where this Merlin 'usually' perches resulting the spotlight effect. Despite the fact that one of the elements involved was man-made rather than by nature, I'm quite pleased with the outcome.

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3665/12127974534_2c7228853e_b.jpg

1DX | 600mm + 2.0X TC = 1200mm | f/8 | 1/1000s | ISO1000 | Manual

C&Cs are welcome.
Phoo

[dankearl]

Bird, perch and natural BG very nice.
Not a fan of the spotlight, just too odd for me.
IQ and techs look great…..

[adrian dancy]

I agree with Dan except I like the bright spot behind the bird.

[Doug Brown]

The spotlight effect works for me, but I might darken it just a bit. Love the pose, eye contact, and fluffed up feathers.

[keith mitchell]

Spot light works well for me, different and all the better for it, think I would like to see a bit taken from the right bird looks a bit lost to me with all that space,just my view of course sure others will think differently, super image IMHO.

Keith.:S3:

[arash_hazeghi]

pretty cool Phoo! excellent details and exposure. I also like the spot light might de-sat a bit.

great work, wish I was there

[Phoo Chan]

Thank you for your comments Dan, Adrian, Doug, Keith and Arash.
Agreed on de-sat a bit Arash. Btw, she's still there right below where we last got our WTK food exchange if you want to get some shots of her.