Black-Necked Stilt

[Bob Blanchard]

Always a challenging bird to photograph. Bright whites, dark blacks, and really hard to get a catch-light on. Another thing I notice is missing from most of the images I see of these fellows is that they actually have red in their eyes. I think I got all the good elements in this capture, but I'm still struggling with crop. I have half a mind to crop out the reflection (I don't think it's that nice a reflection anyway), and then tighten the crop down a bit off the top and on the left. What do you all think?

Canon 1DsMII, 600mm f/4, f/5, ISO 200, 1/1000, +1 EV
http://CatcherofLight.smugmug.com/photos/278463140_ZLKFA-X3.jpg

[Axel Hildebrandt]

Nice light and pose. I would crop tighter and agree regarding the reflection.

[Bob Blanchard]

Thanks Axel. Let's give this a look:
http://CatcherofLight.smugmug.com/photos/278475370_L9xmY-X3.jpg

[Axel Hildebrandt]

I like the repost better.

[Maxis Gamez]

Hey Bob!!

These guys are sooo cute! I like the first post for magazine work but the second post works best. You did well with the exposure and like you say not an easy subject to photograph.

Keep up the good work!

PS: Check out my Black-Necked Stilt just above yours.... :)

[Linda Robbins]

They are cute in an elegant way aren't they! Very nice image. I like both presentations. Keep one of each! Well captured.

[Philip Lombard]

I like the crop Bob, nice job.