Golden-crowned Sparrow

[Dorian Anderson]

This was taken with my walk-around combo (7D2 + 100-400 II) while I was birding yesterday. I carry the rig solely to document sightings, but every once in a while something interesting presents in a photographically-appropriate setting.

These guys nest from Alaska to British Columbia and winter from Washington from California. They're common around here from October through April, but they usually stick to the ground and underbrush. It was nice to get one up at eye level with a clear BG! This represents a new species for my collection. We don't get much 'fall' here in Coastal California, so I'm happy with the little bit of orange in the upper right.

I don't do much real photography with this combo since that usually calls for my 600/4 and -- until it's recent sale -- my 1DX2, but I'm constantly amazed by the sharpness it delivers. Just for fun, I put together a 'Top 20'
gallery of shots generated with this combo. https://www.dorianandersonphotograph...m-f45-56-IS-II

Canon 100-400 f/4.5-5.6 IS II on EOS 7D2
1/800 at f/5.6, ISO 800
Processed in LR CC with a slight bit of NR in Topaz

[John Mack]

A nice pleasing frame. I like the perch and that killer green background. Never heard of gold crown I have only seen white crowned sparrows.

[Paul Burdett]

Beautiful! Who says the 7Dii is "over the hill"...love everything about this one Dorian. Processed very well too.

[Colin Driscoll]

Top shot all around including the orange patch. Loved the gallery too.

[Jay Ing]

Lovely shot. Eye is dead on. I'd stamp out the two back leaves that have dead areas... but I know you keep it as it is. It's all good. TFS.

p.s. That bike tour you took some years ago was quite the outing! Congrats on completing such an undertaking!!

[arash_hazeghi]

I love the perch and the details Dorian, sweet BG too!

TFS

[William Dickson]

Looking real good Dorian....The different shades of brown on the bird look great....Nice perch and BG....Very pleasing to the eye.

Will

[Brian Sump]

Nailed Dorian.

Fantastic pose and super detail. Nice and even with the sensor served you very well.

Love the leafy perch and that background is killer. Not much to add other than I'd sure like to have this one for myself!

[Jonathan Ashton]

Dorian they produced good images when launched so I am quite frankly not surprised the camera still produces good images! Well exposed good colours and little to no noise - great shot.

[Daniel Cadieux]

Another 7DII user? I'm stoked man, I thought I was the only one left. Great bird and super perch. That BG is rather special too.