SEO heading my way.

[Jack Backs]

Taken a couple weeks ago at B K Leach Conservation Area. Mild overcast at the time. I know the background is a little busy. I tried lightening the dark branch on the right but it never look right to me so I left it alone.
Nikon Z9, 500mmf4VRII, TC-14EIII
f5.6, 1/2500s, iso800

[Dorian Anderson]

The intensity on the bird's face sucks us right in, so kudos on that. I also love the fanned tail and the dangling feet. Yeah, the branch isn't perfect, but it's relatively minor in the grand scheme, especially as it's so far back. Makes it look like a legit, in-field capture. Nicely done.

[kevin Hice]

Those eyes really make this and the bird is separated nicely from the background. Yes lightening the dark branch would have helped but no means a deal breaker. I think trying to dodge the branch would have to be done with four or five layers in different sections. Processing of the owl looks great. TFS

[arash_hazeghi]

nice frame, I like the we can see the under wings and a hint of the feet but I wish for a better HA with the facial disk more parallel to the back of the camera. I am ok with the BG. the blacks around the eye are blocked, I wonder if there is any details there to recover ?

TFS

[Jonathan Ashton]

Super shot, good pose, I don't mind the downward gaze, it appears to be hunting, the shadow could easily be remedied with a little blending if desired. I also noticed the blacks are rather dark on the face, it may be worthwhile having another look at the raw file.

[Jack Backs]

I went back and looked at the raw file. There isn't any detail in the black around the eyes. I'll admit this image was a full stop underexposed, I wasn't keeping up with the setting sun.

[William Dickson]

Well captured Jack....I like the frame as is, apart from the sloping branch on our RHS... Easy fix if you think its needed....I like the flight pose and stare...I don't mind the darkness around the eyes...

Will