Cropping , aspect ratio

Just wondering what everyone preference is for cropping your Avian shots ? I know they will vary but all that aside whats your preference.?

I crop according to what fits the design content of the image. It is very rare that I need a certain aspect ratio. A common reason given is for framing, but mats can be cut with windows to fit the image, and can often look attractive with a standard frame size if necessary. Good quality frames and glass can be had in any size and aspect ratio desired, and canvas wrap-arounds should be flexible in aspect ratios.

I'm like Diane, it depends on the subject and image concept. For birds I've done 5x2, 2x1, 5x4, 1x1, 3x2, etc., depending on subject. I recently did 2x1 on an image of a mallard hen with her ten ducklings trailing behind her. The only time that I worry about a consistent aspect ratio is when I'm planning a grouping on the wall.

it depends on your application. if you plan to enter your photos in major competition or if you plan to submit them for publication the aspect ratio is often same as 35mm film. i.e. 3:2

For web most of my images are 3:2 but I do not shy away from other ratios if needed (such as 1:1, or panoramas). The more popular ratios for print are ones that need cropping from 3:2 so when composing in-camera make sure you do not do so too tightly and give yourself a bit of canvas to spare...

Thanks everyone, I was cropping everything for the web life was good, but then when I went to have a few prints done I ran into the size thing, 4/5, 3/2 etc . I did them in a 3/2 size but wondered if there was a "norm" I actually like 1/1.