Lesser Yellow Leg

[Isaac Grant]

This shot of a flying Lesser Yellow Legs was from the east pond at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge. The bird has only one leg, hence the title. :w3 I was there birding and not really looking to take pics but this bird was kind enough to fly right past me.

Canon 7d2 and 100-400 ii. f8, ISO 640, 340mm, SS 1/2500

Converted in DPP 4. In PS I sharpened and applied noise reduction to background.

My own wish is that the bird was facing me just a tiny bit more. It was a bit windy and there were plenty of lines from the water as well. Too distracting?

[Bill Dix]

Very nice flight capture. I've found it difficult to catch these guys in flight. I personally don't mind seeing the bird look in the direction he's flying, but some will certainly prefer a slight head turn. I like the bands in the water; they give the bg some interest. My only suggestion would be to try a slight addition of contrast to the bird, or a point or two of black to the neutrals; it may not be necessary but might make the bird pop a bit more. Is this a youngster?

[Isaac Grant]

Adult bird in fading breeding plumage. I will try your suggestion. Thanks.