Horned Grebe

[Bill Dix]

Several days ago I went down to the lake to try some new equipment. I was rewarded by the presence of this little Horned Grebe in non-breeding plumage -- a rarity on the lake. There have also been sightings of another in full breeding plumage, but I haven't managed decent shots of him. While several friends went down the path to look for this guy, he swam maybe 100 yards underwater from their position, and popped up right in front of me. I was standing on a low bridge so couldn't get low to the water. This is essentially full frame plus a sliver of canvas added to the right. The clouds reflected in the lake were an added bonus.

D7200, 500f4 + 1.7 TC, ISO 800, 1/800s @ f/7.1 manual, Gitzo and Mongoose

[Karl Egressy]

Nice looking bird, love the ruffled feathers and red eye, Bill. It reminds me that once I was asked on an Art Show by an "expert" if I tried to remove the red eye.

[John Robinson]

Pleasing shot Bill. Maybe a tad off the top ? No biggie
John
PS Didn't you have the D7100?

[Bill Dix]

Pleasing shot Bill. Maybe a tad off the top ? No biggie
John
PS Didn't you have the D7100?

Thanks John. I had more on top but cropped some out. I rather liked the "clouds" so left that much in. I had (and still have) the D7000. I've only had the D7200 for a few days, but so far it seems to be an improvement. Perhaps less so over the D7100.

[arash_hazeghi]

I like the soft light, sharp with good details. I prefer a slightly lower angle

TFS

[gail bisson]

Bird looks great.
Just wish for a bit more of a head turn our way.
I really like the way the back feathers are ruffled up as well.
Gail

[Grace Scalzo]

Fluffy little guy. Of course the red eye is the focal point and it's nicely seen here. Love the clouds. I'd open up the shadows behind the eye just a bit. Head angle noted.

[Stu Bowie]

Hi Bill, excellent feather detail, sharp, and I agree, the reflected clouds in the water does take this up a few notches. Well captured.

[Bill Dix]

Thank you all. I appreciate the good suggestions.