Semipalmated Sandpiper

[Grace Scalzo]

I spent much time with shore birds this spring as they dropped onto our south shore for fuel before heading north to breed. I'm just getting around to processing. Here's a semipalmated sandpiper getting ready for the after-bath leap. I chose this one to share with you as I like the position of the little wave behind him (or her).

Thanks as always for looking and for your comments. All are appreciated.

1/1600, f 5.6, iso800
Canon 1Dmk4, 500f4 + 1.4tc + lowered tripod

[PhilCook]

Lovely golden light in this, and nice texture on the water, really cant see anything to improve upon this, very nice

[Norm Dulak]

Very nice. I especially like the wing position and the soft light on the bird. The water droplets in front of the bird add further interest.

[Joe Senzatimore]

Beautiful light and great low angle. Nice exposure as well.

[Bill Dix]

Lovely shot, Grace. Great light and wing position. Looking forward to more of your shorebirds.

[Stu Bowie]

Hi Grace, love the light, colours and sharp details, and I how you captured the swept back wing position. Well timed to get the shot with the wave just behind - sort of gives the effect the plover is surfing. Having said that, I would have moved the plover a touch higher and thus have more room below to 'surf' into. :w3 He/she is looking into the LRC :w3

[Frank Schauf]

Beautiful portrait, great pose and light.

[Daniel Cadieux]

I too like that little wavelet. Great light, pose, water surface. Both wings look good. From that light angle had the bird turned its head slightly more towards us the face would have been lit so beautifully. I get the feeling the image may need a slight CCW rotation?

[Grace Scalzo]

Thanks, everyone. Daniel and Stuart, excellent suggestions and I noted that too about the light/face. Not deleting this one, however.

[gail bisson]

Very nice Grace. Just wishing for a bit more of a head turn but lovely as is.
I like that the wavelet makes the bird look like he is about to "catch a wave".
Lovely light and low POV,
Gail
PS Posted this before reading the other critiques. Sorry for repeating the same things!

[dankearl]

Really nice light and IQ, Grace. Very serene looking.

[Sidharth Kodikal]

Nice comp, excellent exposure and details, Grace. I'd have liked a slight more head turn, but certainly works as is. TFS.

[Karl Egressy]

Nice lighting, wing position and IQ, Grace.

[Bruce Enns]

Beautiful warm light, great wing position and nice details...a lovely image Grace!

[christopher galeski]

very nice image Grace,love the light and good details.well done.

[arash_hazeghi]

nice low angle, good details and sweet light

[Grace Scalzo]

Thanks, everyone. Appreciate your comments.