I made this image at, Oquirrh Lake, Utah. I found this great location which contains lot of waterfowls. Lake was almost frozen, so I walked up to the platform and could get very close to the birds.
I was flat on the platform parallel to the ground when this guy came close to me and stood there for few minutes allowing me to few images.
Nice close up and the details look good. With shots like this I think the proper head angle and eye contact are vital. I think it would be more engaging if the birds head was facing us a few degrees more. Also looks like you are underexposed a bit as the grays of the mantle and upper scaps that are visible are a little too dark for California Gulls. Really hard to get these guys right without over exposing the whites.
Thank you for the great feedback. I thought I nailed the head angle but still I need work on it.
Again for the exposure, I sure thought it was perfect, I will visiting the ponds frequently as they are really close to my home. Will try to get it right next time.