leopard night portrait

[peter delaney]

d2xs 70 -200 vr lens . full frame. iso 100 1/60 @ f2.8 -1 exp comp. no flash . spotlight . taken in greater kruger national park.

[Paul Burgess]

I really really like the mysterious feel of this image, but I'd prefer it with more room around the cat. Also, something about the light just dosen't feel right to me. Either it's too bright, or not hitting the leopard in the right place (IMHO). Still a nice image though!!

[Van Hilliard]

I too responded to the mystery of the image. Perhaps if the light were more directly on the single eye, the feeling that Paul expressed would be dealt with. I think the image is terrific as is, however.

[peter delaney]

Appreciate the comments Paul and Van.....

the space issue is subjective ..I wanted a close intimate portrait ....so any more space and you loose the intimacy...

the light is a spot light .. when we are observing diurnal animals we dont use the spot at all .. with cats we are very careful not to shine directly in there eyes...

[Gus Cobos]

WOW...one killer image...:eek: I like this alot. Congratulations, you captured the mood...:cool:

[Grace Scalzo]

Beautiful image, velvety feel. Your respect for the cat is to be commended.

[Julie Kenward]

I thought the lighting looked a bit off, too but now that I know the reason...I totally get it. Beautiful detail on a beautiful species!

[peter delaney]

Thanks Gus, Grace and Julie for your lovely comments....