Taken at Machias last weekend. The light was really challenging; unfortunately we had no control as to when we got to the island and didn't get to the blinds until late morning. Despite that, it was such a great experience seeing these guys at such close range and I hope to return soon.
40D, 100-400 @ 235mm, 1/2000s, f/6.3, EC -0.67, ISO 200
Background and harsh light can be two very challenging issues with Machias Seal Island. Looks as if you did well with both considering. The green strip in front of the beak is a bit distracting. However you have a very different image than most you take these. I do not think I have ever seen a preening Puffin posted before. And this one is sharp and the face is well controlled for contrast. The breast is very nicely done for such harsh light. A few warm pixels there but not to bad.Please post more if you have them. Thanks for sharing.
Great behavior and great subject. That was a very tough exp situation and you did well. I applied S/H filter to the image to tone it down and also worked lightening the eye a bit. What do you think? Dan Brown
Hope you don't mind. I don't think im better just adding my effort.
I selected the bird and did S/H and then select the eye and did some more S/H. also saturated eye.
I always do to much S/H and then after that i correct with Levels.
Also burned the Chest area using layer with soft light.
Also did some noise reduction on BG
Last edited by Kobus Tollig; 07-20-2008 at 05:44 AM.
Beautiful bird and a great pose. The reposts both work nicely I think the first one is a bit less saturated and more true to life. I hope to see one of these in my viewfinder one day.