Swallow-tailed Kite

[Hugh J McLaughlin]

As Alfred mentioned in his post, exposure was problematical, except during first light. This image was captured at 7:30AM, after the male had dropped off an Iguana hatchling into the nest for the female to feed to the chick. Male and female STKs have clearly defined roles. Also, the kite was flying back toward the east, with the sun about 30 degrees off its lest shoulder.

Nikon D3, 200-400 @ 400mm, f6.3, 1/2500, ISO 1250

Thanks for looking.

Hugh

[Stu Bowie]

Although flying away from you Hugh, the turned back head makes this work. Good detail on the nearer wing, and hope you can recover some more detail on the outer wing.

[Alfred Forns]

I like that pose Hugh !!! Showing top wing and some of the white inside !!! Slight head turn as noted makes just right !!

On some of mine I tried recovering detail in shadows and didn't look well so I left it .... about the only thing that worked was Fabs idea of going a little over !!! Love that bird and fine image !!!!

[Michael Wolf]

Hugh,

Early morning light was the best and you captured it quite well for this image.
I love the unique wing position and the over the shoulder look.

[Alfred Forns]

Huhg .....how in the world were you able to meter for this one :D:)

[Hugh J McLaughlin]

Huhg .....how in the world were you able to meter for this one :D:)


I had spot metered on the Iguana hatchling in its beak as the male flew in, prior to depositing it into the nest:eek::eek:.

How else?????

Hugh

[Harold Davis]

holey smokes that is good. the look back does it for me. nice one, mr hugh!

[Alfred Forns]

I had spot metered on the Iguana hatchling in its beak as the male flew in, prior to depositing it into the nest:eek::eek:.

How else?????

Hugh



........ thanks Hugh .. should have known you metered on the previous pass !!!! :)

[jayparedes]

Nicely done Hugh. The exposure is very well done, and the head turn is just a great bonus.