Loon Family Gothic

[Keith Carver]

Damariscotta Lake, Maine 6-27-08, ISO 800 f/10, -0.3 EV, Canon 1DMIII, 500 mm IS with 1.4X TC.

I like the left-right orientation of the two adult loons plus the left-pointing chick. Shot for medium DOF, so rear adult loon is OOF. Think I like it that way, gives the image some depth. Had to add just a little canvas on right.

[Arthur Morris]

As mosst folks here know, I am not a big d-o-f fan, but with the front adult and the chick so sharp the head of the rear bird really bugs me. Otherwise quite lovely--a perfect arrrangement. And thanks Keith for your membership support!

[Maxis Gamez]

Hi Keith,

I have to agree with Artie on this one. Very nice composition and low angle. What I like about this image the most is that the chick and one of the parents are facing you at the same time!

[Ed Cordes]

I too like the composition and "family" feel to the image, but I think the OOF rear loon is too distracting.

[Keith Carver]

I did selective USM on the rear loon, so it's a little sharper in this revised version. Of course nothing takes the place of adequate DOF in the first place, so I should have shot at f/16 or higher. But maybe this looks a little better?

[Arthur Morris]

A bit better but it is not only the sharpness that is a problem, the head of the front bird and the chick are so sharp and clean while the rear bird has the light striking it differently and lots of specular highlights...

[Keith Carver]

Thanks for the follow-up, Artie. This has been a good learning experience.

[Arthur Morris]

:) :) :) You are most welcome.