Little Owlets (Athene noctua)

[Jonathan Ashton]

Tripod MLU, Canon 1DX, Canon 500mm f4L IS II, + 2xTC III, ISO 4000, 1/50 sec, f9
ACR + PSCC
These were taken on a different day to the previous image, I revisited this morning and got some images using Liveview.

[Steve Kaluski]

Hi Jon, from the discussion I think you are on the right track, but I am still thinking your 'location' may need to move from what you said, personally I think you are on a very tough road that may not deliver what you want, especially the techs, but your call. I would look to expand the site and try to persuade them to venture further and in better light, it's just too tough with the light & shade.

The light is better on this one, but I would also look to 'sculpt' it so you have more depth and interest/focus. What's the green (algae), it's throwing thing out and distracting unfortunately, not sure if you can address this? Techs I think we both know the 'sweet' spot so it's case of juggling with the light.

Look forward to more 'fruitful' images to come.

TFS
Steve

[Daniel Cadieux]

I think the setting is wonderful! Some tweaks to the WB, and some minor cleanup would be beneficial (unless of course you want to retain the natural "mess" these guys can do!). Tough conditions from the looks of the techs.

[Jonathan Ashton]

Thanks Steve, and Dan. I did correct the white balance for the grey in the owls, the light was through clouds and then clear in parts but it was always shining through the green leaves. So there was a green cast but in addition the tree was various shades of green. I have made some images removing the green but they don't look right to me. The wacky colours you see are not far out for that day. I took more images this morning it was much more even and dull light and less green cast, I will post shortly.

[John Mack]

I liked the last one and i like this one. Cool to see two owls in there. Looks good for what you are working with.

[Joseph Przybyla]

This is wonderful, love everything about the image. I wonder if you copied the setting from this image and used them for your previous image, this image has more warmth. Thank you for sharing, Jon.