Dad and chick keeping an eye on me - common loon

This pair was imaged last summer. The chick is about 6 days old, and will soon be evicted from the parents back. It varies a bit, but usually by 2 weeks, the parents are not allowing the chick to ride around. They will dive away if the chick tries to climb on board.

D500 600VR f/7.1, 1/1000s ISO 500. Taken from my little boat.

Post: 20% crop for comp. Cleaned up reflection from catchlights in the water, selective sharpening, bit of curves work. Cleaned up catchlights on iris of both birds.

Advice and comments appreciated.

Cheers

Randy

OK Randy, when is the BPN field trip to your loon spot? These photos of the young birds riding the adults are just beyond adorable. I must experience this as some point. The birds look fantastic against the dark water. Why do you clean up the catchlights? I see people mention that all the time but it is something that I never even think about. Could you please explain the rationale. Thanks.

Hi Randy, love the overall exposure in this, and I do like how Mom and chick are looking the same way. Good DOF on both, sharp on Mom ( baby has to be fuzzy ) The reflection of the water on Mom's face takes this a touch.

Terrific shot Randy love the light and colours, the eyes both equally visible - impressive stuff. I get the impression it may benefit from a tiny weeny CCW.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Isaac Grant

OK Randy, when is the BPN field trip to your loon spot? These photos of the young birds riding the adults are just beyond adorable. I must experience this as some point. The birds look fantastic against the dark water. Why do you clean up the catchlights? I see people mention that all the time but it is something that I never even think about. Could you please explain the rationale. Thanks.

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Isaac:

Yes, the second catchlight is absolutely natural, and I do often leave it in. But, depending on the angle of the shot, the size of the pupil, etc. etc., the second catchlight sometimes starts to make the eye look less sharp than it really is. So, if I have an eye that I just can't get looking sharp, I will evaluate the catchlights to see if they are the problem. No magic, just something to be aware of and tweak if needed.

Randy

Another beautiful image, IQ:fabulous!

Thanks for a another beauty Randy. I know you post these all the time... I for one never tire. Love them' loons.
On a side note, if anyone know a good spot for shooting them near CA/in CA let me know. -