This Northern Flicker was photographed in the Sandia Mountains in Albuquerque. The lighting wasn't ideal, and I had to spend some time in PS toning things down. But I'm reasonably happy with the results. Also, this was shot at f/4, something I rarely do anymore. It actually works well in this picture, helping to produce a nice soft BG that still conveys a sense of environment. I was fortunate to get enough DOF to keep the entire bird in focus.
Canon 30D, 500mm, f/4, 1/400, ISO 400, no flash, monopod
I don't get why this shot hasn't been commented on yet. Love almost everything about it. The eye contact is great, as is the pose and colours. Would be tempted to take a smidge of the left just to see how it would look if the top of the tree would come from the corner. Otherwise lovely!
i agree with krijn!! great work. love the detail in the bird and the bg is nice too. i can see what you were talking about trying to tone some things down, but i think you did pretty good!