Hooded Merganser (female)

[Jim Crosswell]

This was taken last week at a local creek. A lower angle was a possibility but would have introduced unwanted elements in the BG. Hope you enjoy the image.

Nikon D500
Sigma 150-600 @600mm
ISO 1250
1/800s
f6.3
Handheld

[Noel Heustis]

Jim - I like the lighting, the clarity, the eye contact, and the reflection. The waves around the subject seem a bit bright, maybe just a slight reduction in the highlights. Nice job getting that close. Thanks for sharing...I do enjoy the image.

[Mike Poole]

I would have agreed with the lower angle, but if it just introduces a rubbish BG, then I think you made the right choice here. Do you have any earlier frames, the bird just looks to have swum just past being parallel to you. That said, the head turn does make this more of a minor point. Also - and I don't know tis species - could it use a little more contrast?

Mike

[Allen Sparks]

Hi Jim,
Agree with you on the POV/BG tradeoff. A nice capture with soft light and good details.

[William Dickson]

Hi Jim. Nicely captured and a beautiful looking bird. I agree with Mike about the contrast. The faded reflection adds.

will

[gail bisson]

I love the female hoodies! They are so dainty and beautiful in their own way.
Yes, to a lower POV but understand your constraints.
Like the color of the water and the clear eye,
Gail

[Jim Crosswell]

Thanks for the comments and suggestions. Here is another version with a little more contrast. Mike I do have some earlier frames and will give them a second look for processing.