Avian Image of the Week Melissa Groo for week ending Dec. 2nd, 2011 - Wood Duck, Wings Up

Congratulations Melissa!!!

Canon 1D4
500m
Gitzo/Wimberley
crouched low at water's edge

ISO 400
1/1250 sec
f/5.0

Taken during wood duck workshop with Matthew Studebaker in Oct at Chagrin ponds, Ohio. I liked the wing flap, the water splashes, and the tail position. And the low angle. Thanks to Matthew for constantly stressing the importance of this.
Some might wish for a better head angle but I thought since body slightly turned toward us, head directed straight ahead was ok.
I lightened some dark patches in the background. Crop of maybe 30%. Sharpening. Some recovery in whites.
I greatly appreciate all C and C. Thanks for looking

Congrats Melissa on the richly deserved honor. I knew this image had awards written all over it ;)

Congratulations Melissa! This is a real beauty.

Congratulations Melissa!!!

Stunning Action capture Melissa.

Wonderful image, congrats on IOW!! So well deserved.

Hey Mel, This is stunning. Love the CYAN primary tips.

Thanks so much to all! What a thrill and an honor for me!!

Congratulations, Melissa!

Well done, Melissa. Congratulations!

this one is a winner Melissa, my choice of IOW as well!

Thank you so much, everyone, hugely appreciated.

Big time congras Melissa. this is a truly nice duck and image.

I am late to the party! Congrats Melissa,
gail

Congratulations melissa on such an amazing image

Congrats, deserving image!