Courting Oystercatchers

[Steve Maxson]

These black oystercatchers were photographed on an Oregon beach in April. Unfortunately, the DOF was not sufficient for both to be in sharp focus. A higher f-stop may have helped,but would have also brought up the breaking waves in the background. The shadow cast on the second bird may add interest to the scene (or not - opinions??). 40D, 300 f/4 + 1.4X, 1/3200, f/5.6, ISO 400. Comments are welcome.

[Aidan Briggs]

Nice light, setting and I like the open bill. The other bird is so OOF that I am not sure if it adds much to the image. I often have the same problem with f/stops and waves in the BG.

Looking forward to more.

[Paul Marcellini]

I don't think the oof bird detracts, but I do wish it was in focus. A beautiful bird though and I like the interaction. I might tone down the legs a touch.

[Axel Hildebrandt]

I like the interaction, BG and angle. The shutter speed was high enough to stop down more...in hindsight. :)

[Ramon M. Casares]

I think light is great and the sharp bird has such a strong pose that the second OOF one is nothing less than, in the best of ways, part of the enviroment :)
Great expsoure, colors, BG, detail and comp. Congratulations!

[Steve Canuel]

Hi Steve,
I like the wide-eyed look and "smile" of the one on the right and how it contrasts with the disinterested action of the other bird. The shadow on the head adds interest to me because it makes me think he's yakking right in her ear.

[Fabs Forns]

At least one of them is interested :)

Great capture, with good light and excellent EXP.

[Stu Bowie]

Stunning light, and very well exposed on the blacks. The slightly OOF one doesnt distract, as the other OC with his open beak steals the show here. Love the low angle, and the colours in the BG. Great image Steve.

[Simon Bennett]

Interesting behaviour captured here.