Avian Captive and Hand of Man IOTW 12/04/08 John Rain

Congratulations John Rain
Meadowlark

One of my first pics with my new 500F4IS.

Thanks for looking. JR

Canon 40D, 500F4IS, 1/1000s, F4, ISO-400, Manual Exposure, "Handheld"

Congratulations, John!

Congratulations on a great picture and being the image of the week.

Congratulations John...:cool:

Way to go on this lovely winning image!

sweet! the 500 is paying dividens already, huh? congrats.

The capture is amazing
The bird is beautiful. Such incredible plumage.
Such incredible detail in the shot.
The interplay between each feather is wonderful.
I am truly impressed.

Thank you all for the nomination and the kind feedback! But most importantly, thank you for making me a better photographer in the past year - of which this image is a great reflection. BPN has been an incredible resource and help in better understanding image compositions, critical focus, post processing, equipment choices and too many other things to mention. Reviewing my pics before 2008 I recognize how blind I was. Your "gentle but honest critique" opened my eyes. Thanks to all who made this site happen, keep it alive and make it such a unique place. Best, JR