Great Horned Owl fledgling, revisited

[Bill Dix]

Had another go at the two owl fledglings the other day. This one had built up the nerve to fly from the nest, and perched some distance above in a Tulip tree with too many branches. Some pruning involved. We (Geoffrey and I) were perched on a Lull platform some 25 feet above the ground, with just enough room for tripod legs with an inch to spare.

D7200, 500f4 + 1.4 TC, ISO 800, 1/1250s @ f/7.1 manual.

[John Robinson]

Like it ! Nicely framed by the branches too. (Tulip tree one of my favourites here) Maybe sharpen the head a bit Bill? Nice shot whatever
Cheers
John

[Jim Crosswell]

You did well under challenging conditions Bill. I agree that the head needs additional sharpening. The owls right eye looks a little blurry.

[Richard Flack]

Agree with the comments already made, very cool owl Bill. (Pity about eh branches in front). TFS

[christopher galeski]

like it,like the look it given you,agree on sharpening the head a bit more,esp the eyes.TFS.

[Bill Dix]

Thanks guys. The bird's right eye was in shadow so I brightened it up considerably. Since it wasn't in direct sun it lacks the fine detail definition of the left eye. But I certainly agree that some additional sharpening of the eye and head will help. I'll go back to the jpeg and fix it. I appreciate the comments.

[Grace Scalzo]

Such a tricky situation but you came away with some nice keepers. With his head and face in the clear, I don't mind the branches...it's where he (or she) is.

[Bill Dix]

Thanks to you, Grace. I really appreciate the opportunity.

And to those that wished for some additional sharpening, here's a repost: