African Black Oyster Catcher

Taken at De Hoop Nature Reserve, South Africa 24/04/2008

EOS 1D MkIII

500m IS hand held F6.3, 1/2000, ISO400

Hi Ken,

Very nice profile. I wish for more room all around and perhaps a little better head turn. You did well with the low angle and exposure.

Hi Ken, I like the capture, but agree with Maxis on the head angle and being too tight in the frame. I would add more canvas to the left of the frame so your bird can continue walking down the beach...The eye looks a little soft to me...:eek::cool:

Agree with previous and can add check your light angle !!!! Would have made a difference lighting up the front !!! Gorgeous bird !!!!

I agree with all of the above, unfortunately lying on your belly (which in my case is quite large) on the sand is not conducive to getting a very good shot. The birds were moving a lot and the light was very harsh. Unfortunately they have now left to visit Namibia rest assured when they return I will be visiting again to try and get something a lot better. My major reason for posting is the rarity there are apparently only around 5,000 in the world.

Hi Ken,

I didn't know they were only 5,000 of them.... :(

Wow, quite scarce! I would still add canvas all around for a more pleasing presentation.

Thanks for sharing this image, I didn't know either there were only so few left. Adding to the other comments, the image would be even better if the bird walked toward you.

Very nice image. Love the running pose.
I find it a bit tight. Especially for this movement some room needed on the left and the right.

Szimi

Wonderful to see this species and especially since there are so few of them. Great detail in the blacks and I agree a little more canvas would strengthen this lovely image !!! Thanks for sharing.

Is this better?
I am new to manipulation.

Hi Ken,

Superb!! :) Keep up the good work!