Here is another frame of a Goldeneye on my outing in Colorado. I think the BG on this one isn't quite as good, but I like the slightly open bill on this one better.
A1
200-600mm
1.4 TC
1/10000 at f/9
ISO 1600
Exp comp -2/3
Kurt, totally agree with you on the beak. That definitely enhances dif shots IMO.
The bkg doesn't bother me a bit here. I like the effect of the reeds/grasses at bottom transitioning up and that the body of the Goldie is in the darker section.
The green in the head shows very nicely. You might be able to extract a touch more from the whites but looking pretty good here.
Great capture Kurt and details look great . Wish you had the open bill on the other image with that sweet background. Hard to hit all on the wish list. For me I also like the slight angle coming at you on the other image. I would still be very happy with this. TFS
Looks like he's smiling for you! An excellent frame - incredible what that lens and TC can do in the right hands. I love the graded BG here. I struggle to get more texture in flight shots, and I think the BG adds interest without distracting.