LBR portrait

[Sanjeev Aurangabadkar]

This was at the Okavango Delta, Botswana. about 50% crop.
7D II
100-400 II
1/640
f/8
ISO 800

[Steve Kaluski]

Hi Sanjeev, I very much like the thinking here, but your 500, plus even with your fond 1.4 too may have offered a better option rather than cropping hard and bashing the pixels, but always easy to say with hindsight. However you do have good detail & clarity even after a huge crop. Might do some selective exposure on the FG plumage just to ease the brighter aspect, WDYT? Nice rich golden colours and the BKG ties in too.

TFS
Steve

[keith mitchell]

Think the colour and detail are superb, is that an insect above the beak?

Keith.

[Sanjeev Aurangabadkar]

Thanks Steve and Keith. I think Keith you are right! Does look like an insect or a part of it?
Steve, this was a fleeting moment/stop by the guide as he saw the bird, got a quick shot with the 7D II and 100-400 II, I felt the angle was steep so did not hoist the 500 :-) I was quiet surprised at the detail and sharpness I got. Honestly I think the 100-400 II is amazing in that regard. And the 7D II at 800-1600 ISO is much better than the original! Will post a ISO 3200 of one of my favorite subject in the wildlife forum for you to see! :-)

[Steve Kaluski]

Hi Sanjeev, can't comment on the updated kit, all I know was that my 100-400 stayed in the loft gathering dust for quite a white until I sold it, mint condition too, LOL.

You really have developed so much from the outset and now I know you have a more discerning eye and how to shoot, PP just comes in time, but with all your travels it's great to see how you implement what you have learnt from all the various members here, plus in participating in replies it does also help hone the eyes too. Next year I think will be awesome for you, just don't succumb to the Amarula if a certain person offers you a taste .

[Diane Miller]

What a gorgeous pose! Not what I'd call pixel-bashing!

The new 100-400 is wonderfully sharp, and pairs so well with the 7D2. Sure, a 1DX and 500 or 600 is "better," but not as quick to shoot with in many situations.

[Steve Kaluski]

Sure, a 1DX and 500 or 600 is "better," but not as quick to shoot with in many situations.

Hi Diane, what instances, personally I think you'll find the 500 is quicker, but I guess it depends perhaps on who/how you use it and being HH, certainly it would be my preferred lens without question. Apart from obvious things like weight and the 100-400 is a zoom compared to a fixed lens, the images are critically sharper with the 500, as a zoom is never as sharp due to it's nature, but it's 'horses for courses' and all comes down to using the right tools for the job where possible.

Regarding pixel bashing, any image posted on the web can look superb, but try printing an image at 50% of the original capture at say 20x30 and the IQ will show. I guess once again it depends on what the final image is going to be used for, but ideally, cropping hard, albeit only 50% (in this instance) is something to be avoided IMHO, why through all that data away, similar to cropping from landscape to portrait, it's just bad practice. I think this is why sometimes people wonder why the print doesn't look as good compared to a posting. If we put the time in to achieve the shot you want to retain the most IQ you can, the image will be cleaner, sharper, and overall better.

Just my take.

[Sanjeev Aurangabadkar]

Owning both the 500 II and 100-400 II, I have to say that the prime is in a different class, but both complement each other well. Agree with you Steve. Dianne, like you, I am very happy with that combo, but my best images have been with the 500 II so far :-)

[Steve Kaluski]

Sanjeev, you made a conscious decision 'as we all do' at that particular moment, but on presentation, if there is a way to improve things for the future then as 'members' we should pass on our thoughts, advise etc and so when an opportunity presents itself again you are better equipped to capture that image.
Look how far you can come over the years from sharing your images and embracing the thoughts, advice & feedback give across all the Forums.

[Satish Ranadive]

Magnificent and colourful portrait, Sanjeev.
Love it.

Regards,
Satish.

[Karen Pleasant]

I enjoy this image - a lot! The eye and head and head are in sharp focus. And the delightfully fine feather details makes it seem like I am seeing it in real life. Thank you so much for sharing!