Little owl

[Steve Kaluski]

Well, having just spent almost 2.5 intensive weeks in South Africa, I thought I would post where I had left off, with my owls. It was also great to catch up with young Stu & Arno, thanks guys for the craic, trust you still had your head on after Saturday Stu.

I appreciate those who popped by & commented on the previous image, sorry i did not reply, but thanks.

Cheers
Steve

Subject: Little owl on rotten post (Athene noctua)
Camera: Canon 1DX
Lens: 200-400f/4 Gitzo tripod/Uniqball head
Exposure: 1/2000s at f/5.6 ISO800 slight crop
Format: Portrait

[Gabriela Plesea]

My favourite little feathery friend, and I never pass an opportunity to comment on images of these owls Steve - I just adore them, for they have so much character in comparison with their size!

I like the proportion here and placement of the subject in the frame - I find it aesthetically pleasing, the BG is just right and makes the subject stand out so nicely for me, the almost "pyramid" shaped perch is great - I can see so much texture on this old piece of wood (if this was in the African bush it would be polished by rhino horn). I really cannot find any fault with this, subject sharp and lots of detail, I think you have perfected the art of "capturing the owl" and learnt so much about their behaviour along the way, that you know very well what pose brings the best in them and what stance highlights their character in the loveliest (and sometimes funniest) way.

I look forward to an owl book/calendar soon, this is just another superb addition to a great owl story, really enjoyed viewing-thank you!

Warmest regards,

[Ian Wilson]

Beautiful work Steve. Technically spot on. TFS, Cheers, Ian

[Marina Scarr]

What a pleasing little owl image. I love seeing all of the texture and lichen on the perch, and its shape really adds to it, esp with the owl sitting at the tippity top with its foot so prominent. The centered comp worked well here.

[Karl Egressy]

Nice side view portrait, Steve.

[Steve Kaluski]

Thanks folk, I guess since posting these over the years they perhaps have a similar standing hopefully to your Burrowing owls now in the US.

They are still endangered to some degree, not quite as bad as the Barn owl who has been severely hit due to the wet weather over the wet winters sadly. Fingers crossed these two provide some new editions in the coming weeks, and interesting that this subject is inspiring people to photograph them too.

Thanks again.

Steve

[Pamela de Zilva]

Keep them coming Steve. Can't get enough of these beauties. Great perch, lighting,and pose. Pamela

[Andreas Liedmann]

Hi Steve the best perch so far of your series , just right for my liking.
Like the side profile with that gorgeous eye very good visible ,paired with your very nice processing ,resulting in a very pleasing outcome. Well done , Maestro .

Cheers and keep them coming ,Andreas.