Although the species Black Stilt is one of the most endangered shorebirds it cross breeds with Pied Stilts to produce Black Stilt Hybrids which are relatively common.
Taken just after 9 AM in bright sunshine,
Pentax K10D & Sigma 400 AF 1/3000 @ F5.6.
Spot metered. No EV compensation.
Posting is about 1/5 of original image.
Ian McHenry
Nice frontal lighting Ian. A much lower view point would elimate the background that is making the beak indistinct - sometimes you end up wet and muddy :). I would prefer the bird lower and further to the right in the frame. They are difficult to get close to - it is often worth trying to set up an ambush by concealing yourself lying down and waiting for them to wander toward you - a right-angle viewfinder attachment saves a crick in the neck.
Thanks Tony I was patrolling estuary with camera on an el cheapo Dick Smiths monopod at full stretch to get shots above long estuary grass. What I should have done when sighted bird without foreground obstruction is exactly as you suggested, or at least reduced monopod height. Hope I remember next time !!! LOL.
Must write it in my wee notebook.....Done !!!
Cheers: Ian McHenry
Great find, I like the walking pose. I would prefer a more rectangular crop and lower angle. If you would have been further to your left, there would have been a better separation between bill and BG.
Thanks Axel
Have recropped to more rectangular.
Nice tip about sideways step.
Will add it to my notebook for pre-photography reminder.
Cheers: Ian McHenry
Hybrid Black Stilt
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