Pintail

Another Bosque Pintail. I hope the BG isn't too distracting.

Canon 1DMk2n
300 f2.8 + 2x
ISO 400
f5.6
1/2000

What works: the sense of power in the down stroge of the wing; good head position; the displacement and spray of water all say power and force. Nits (please don't be offended): image could use a bit more contrast seems a little flat and soft; the BG is, as you already mentioned a bit distracting a masked layer with some gausian blur might help but then you would also blure the water drops: if you masked carefuly ( a lot of work though) it could be done. Nice image.

Wonderful action and timing Steve as well as excellent detail and exposure. I love the BG and how it brings in a bit of the environment and if were mine I would like to see a little more canvas on the left rather than an almost square crop. Congratulations and many thanks for sharing Steve.

excellent action, maybe a little tight, or the bird is a bit centered., the environment is sweet.