Green Pigeon on Fig tree

[gail bisson]

Botswana November 2014
canon 1DX
F 600 mm
ISO 800
SS 1/250
F 4.5
Cropped to vertical from horizontal orientation.As I look at this as posted I think I should take a bit more off the top.
PP: Reduced exposure by .75, NR to BG, cleaned up the BG a bit, levels, DE at 3% to bird and tonal contrast to -75 for midtones and shadows to soften/blur the BG, USM to JPEG
Comments and critiques always appreciated and learned from with thanks,
Gail

[Bill Dix]

Lovely bird, pose and perch. And comp, although you could take a sliver off the top as you suggest. It feels just a little washed out to me. I wonder if adding a few points of black would help?

[Grace Scalzo]

Yes, to a bit off the top, but what a great frame. Was this set up? Lovely palette with the bg so perfectly setting off the little bird.

[David Salem]

I like the comp the way it is and the bird looks great with it's nice soft colors and that striking blue eye. The details and techs look perfect too. I agree with Bill about a few points of black. Well done Gail.

[BenBotha]

I agree, looks a bit washed out. Rest, I agree with the above. Where was this taken?

Ben

[Binu John]

Excellent shot, Gail! Love the pose, perch and details. +1 for adding a few points of black. Well done!

[gail bisson]

Hi Grace,
No, this is not a set-up.
I took this picture while on a boat in the Okavengo Delta near Xaro Lodge. These pigeons are really beautiful in real life and this is the best shot I have ever been able to get of them as they are quite skittish.
They also love to hide deep in the trees so I am quite happy with this pic.
Will rework it with adding blacks.
Thanks to all who commented,
Gail

[Sidharth Kodikal]

What a gorgeous pigeon (actually most pigeons/doves have an understated beauty)
I love the pose and the slanted perch. The slight head turn is perfect. I'd crop just a bit tighter, but it's fine as is.
Nicely done Gail. Looking forward to more of your Africa images.