Black-faced Waxbill - 2 to choose from

[Richard Flack]

Black-faced Waxbill
While staying at Groot Kolk Wilderness Camp in the Kgalagadi, I set up some natural perches above the water troughs (which sit on the corners of each of the 4 units). A variety of birds visited each day including these stunning black-faced waxbill. It is not often one gets a completely white background and I like how it helped these birds stand out. Interested to hear your thoughts as well as which image you prefer. Thanks in advance!

Location: Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
Date taken: June 2014

Photo details:
ISO 400
Shutter speed 1/1000
F stop 6.3
Exposure bias +0.3

[Richard Flack]

[Bill Dix]

Stunning bird indeed, in a lovely pose. My preference is for #1 Although I love the dual poses in #2, the lack of sufficient DOF hurts if for me. In #1, I feel as if the bird could be brightened up a bit. Maybe select just the bird (not the perch), and do a Levels or Curves adjustment to bring out some brightness overall, and open up the shadows. Not knowing the bird, it may be that it is accurately portrayed; just gives me that feeling of needing a boost.

[Satish Ranadive]

Excellent high key image. Beautiful bird with beautiful colors and nice details. Rest is mentioned by Bill Sir.
In all simple and sweet image.

Regards,
Satish.

[David Salem]

Nice high key image of this beautiful and unique bird. Detail and exposure look great. Well done

[Stu Bowie]

Hi Rich, well done with this set up, its turned out very well. What a super pose from the waxbill, and yes, the colours do pop against the high key BG. I would like to see a version with a touch more constrast.

[Diane Miller]

Very nice, but definitely needs more contrast and brightness on the birds.

[adrian dancy]

Good detail and pose. Given the lighting you have done well.

[Sidharth Kodikal]

Wow, what a beauty Richard. Stunning bird, lovely details and the high key effect is perfect for it. Perch size, bird size, comp all perfect imo. Well done sir.

[Richard Flack]

Thanks so much for the comments everyone! Really appreciate it! (Will definitely brighten it up some more and increase the contrast)