Hawk owl portrait

A very close encounter and a 70% of full frame crop allowed this portrait of a northern hawk owl. The posted image size is much smaller than allowed sicne such a portrait does not look appealing when large. Canon 40D-500mm F4 and 1.4x, no flash, ISO 400, F7.1, beanbag from car parked right next to the owl, no bait. Although so incrediblt close to the owl, I liked this perspective of the owl NOT staring at me, a human intruder, but looking out at its habitat for food.

I like partial owl portrait shots but often feel this composition results from not wanting to show a ugly human perch. For this image, the bird was on a branch. Although 80% of the time observed, it was on a pole or wire. :(

I like the portrait, soft light and exposure control and might give it more space top and right.

Jeff, Other than Axel's "space at top" This is a sweet capture! Bob

Maybe a little tight, but nevertheless a wonderful portrait. Nice to get at a similar or same level as your bird. :)

A bit tight for me too, but nice to see the lovely detail and for some this crop works very well. Nice shot.

I like it as it is. Lovely details and yes, a unique perspective.