Black-headed Heron

[Chris van Rooyen]

This is an image that I created near my home in Johannesburg in 2004, at a nearby bird sanctuary, where a colony of these birds are breeding every year. This was one of the first images I ever created with a digital camera, I had just gotten my ID MK II, and I was delighted with the result:).

Camera Model: Canon EOS-1D Mark II
Date/Time: 2004:09:26 16:41:24
Shutter speed: 1/2000 sec
Aperture: 8
Exposure mode: Av
Exposure compensation: -2/3
Flash: Off
Metering mode: Multi-segment
ISO: 640
Lens: 500mm
Focal length: 700mm

[Ramon M. Casares]

This is just terrific Chris, pose light and BG are killers! Sharpness is just superb but what I just love is the shadow of the head in the wing.. such a big plus! Congratulaitons!

[Nagesh Mula]

Simply Excellent!! This is the first time I am seeing GBH flying in such a pose.

[david cramer]

What a wonderful pose. Plenty sharp and the BG is nice. I agree about the shadow being a big plus!

[Judy Lynn Malloch]

Wonderful pose and I love the open bill too. Excellent color and detail and superb eye contact. Love this Chris and a big congratulations.

[Daniel Cadieux]

Although the overall pose is impressive, check out the crossed legs...VERY COOL!! This guy looks pretty darn happy too :-)

[Mike Tracy]

If I had to wish for any type of improvement to this it might for uniform light under his wing and the elimination of the shadow on top. I am only pointing that out because we are not supposed to say "great shot ! " but it is.

[Daniel Cadieux]

I am only pointing that out because we are not supposed to say "great shot ! " but it is.

Nothing wrong with say "great image!" when it is...but stating the reason(s) why is the important and encouraged part:)

[Linda Robbins]

What a unique graceful pose - I love the crossed legs and open bill. I like the extra dof you got by choosing f/8 . Great image in every respect.

[Glenn Bartley]

I can see why! Another absolute beauty from you Chris.

[Neil Losin]

Superb pose, no nits from me :)

[Lance Peters]

So may pluses with this one - Open beak, Crossed legs, lovely colours - Cant think of a single NIT. Super. :):)

[Fabs Forns]

To die for!!!!

[Chris van Rooyen]

Thanks guys, appreciated as always:-)

[Mark Schmitt]

Unusual head position. Usually fly with head and neck in line. Fine work. Done see any real nits to speak of .

[Maxis Gamez]

Excellent work! One of your best Cris!