Red-necked Falcon

[Chris van Rooyen]

This is another image from my recent trip to the Kgalagadi. This little falcon is a ardent hunter of birds, and as quick as lightning. The light was a bit muted by cloud, so I overexposed 2/3 to get rid of the murky quality. I used my standard 1/2500 SS for freezing action.

Camera Model: Canon EOS-1D Mark III
Date/Time: 2009:03:13 09:42:20
Shutter speed: 1/2500 sec
Aperture: 4.5
Exposure mode: Tv
Exposure compensation: +2/3
Flash: Off
Metering mode: Evaluative
Drive mode: Continuous
ISO: 1000
Lens: EF500mm f/4L IS USM
Focal length: 500mm

[Tony Whitehead]

Dynamic launching pose, Chris. I love the way the curve of the perch mirrors the curve of the wings. Would have been nicer without the other branch in front but no option to remove it. Perfect focus and sharpness on the head.

[Doug Brown]

Love everything about this one Chris! The pose sets it apart.

[Kim Rollins]

Wonderful capture Chris.

It looks very much as our American Kestrel does.

[Ramon M. Casares]

Superb shot! Great pose, lovely BG, excellent light and comp s well as BG and detail. Big congratualitons!

[Axel Hildebrandt]

Great takeoff pose and soft light. I might remove the lighter patch in front of the head and far wing.

[Nate Chappell]

Cool, great take off pose of a beautiful species Chris.

[Ákos Lumnitzer]

Great pose indeed and razor sharp. I like everything about the image. Habitat (twigs) is no issue for me.

[Chris van Rooyen]

Thanks for the comments guys!

[Mark Dumbleton]

Stunning Capture Chris! Lovely muted tones. Like the BG and the pose perfect!
Well done