In Formation Composite

[Dave Mills]

This image is made up of the same bird I shot in sequence and then placed in formation. I tweaked some features(very minor amount} to look like different birds.

[Keith Carver]

It looks very believable, Dave, nice job. A very slight vertical gradient in the BKGR might be worth a try. Also, selective lightening the underwing of the top bird to make the bill more contrasty might help. Nice composite!

[Dave Mills]

OK, Thanks for the comment Keith...

[denise ippolito]

Dave, Nice work with the composite and I like the subtle changes you did to the bird. I see some compression in the BG. A bit tight but it is well designed and I like it.

[Fabs Forns]

It looks believable :) OF course, the light direction helps with the illusion :)

[Dave Phillips]

nice comp Dave....well composed.
Agree with Denise about an excess of compression coloration/posterization in bg

[Dave Mills]

Based on a few comments I changed the backround adding a graduated effect and lightening the blue. Excuse some errors since I did it quickly. Not sure if I like it better or not...

[denise ippolito]

Nice job adding the gradient Dave.

[Keith Carver]

Like the lighter BKGR much better, Dave, and you eliminated the posterization. As for the gradient, you're getting there but I think maybe you overdid it - the change seems too abrupt toward bottom. Try making the gradient not quite as light at the bottom but still lighter than the top.

[Harshad Barve]

Lovely creation , At first sight I thought there are 3 birds :D
Repost for me
TFS

[Indranil Sircar]

Excellent composite, Dave. could not have recognized the same bird if you had not said so! The repost works very well.