I just returned to the Viera Wetlands for the first time and took this GBH nest building on a palm. As I haven't taken much in the way of bird images for the past year I can see I need some practice. I was hoping I could get some critisum to hurry up my getting up to speed, any thoughts gtratly appreciated.
Shooting data: Nikon D3S 2013:02:11 166:16
300mm
300mm (in 35mm film)
1/200 sec, f/10
Mode: Manual
Metering: Multi-segment
ISO: 200
White balance: Fine weather
Flash: Off
File size: 145MB
Image size: 2555 x 1757
Color space: sRGB
Saturation: Normal
Sharpness: Normal
Contrast: Normal
Color profile: sRG
Nice light and good composition. Two things I noticed: 1) shutter speed was a little low. Although the bird in flight seems to be sharp, the bird in the nest is not. This is probably because you were panning with the flying bird; 2) The wing position of the flying bird is not ideal. All the way up or down, or at least partly folded would be better. Finally, I wish the angle were better, that is, that you were positioned a bit to the right, so that the sitting bird is not in the RLC. Others may have some additional comments. TFS.
I would add, with the D3S, push the ISO up to get a higher shutter speed. BIF need at least 1/1000s for big slow flyers like the GBH, and 1/2000s is better. Ducks, I like to shoot for 1/2500s min.
Some noticeable sharpening halo around the far wing.
Exposure looks good.
I agree about how easy it is to get out of practice, so keep after it!
Good points so far. I never go below ISO 400 for birds, even in bright conditions. ISO 400 would have given you 1/400s...and then opening up to f/7.1 would up that to 1/800s. Good exposure, nice colours, your composition looks fine, and I like the stick in the bill. Dust bunny to eliminate above the bill.
Bringing a stick
6:16
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