Hawk Owl in early morning light.

[Jody Melanson]

Model = Canon EOS-1D Mark II N
Exposure Time = 1/800"
F Number = F8
Exposure Program = Manual
ISO Speed Ratings = 400
Metering Mode = Spot
Flash = Flash did not fire, compulsory flash mode
Focal Length = 400mm
Color Space = sRGB
Exposure Mode = Manual exposure
Baited
Handheld using Bushhawk

I really liked the light and pose on this one. Don't know about the BG again....

[Axel Hildebrandt]

The BG works for me since it is the owl's natural habitat. Pose and details are great, too.

[Peter Hawrylyshyn]

jody - like it a lot

to me the pic is all about the owl - great colors, sharpness, and perfect head position with those penetrating eyes

the perfectionists will ask/hope for more outstretched wings, but to me the pose suggests the owl is banking/turning on its final descent which matches the eyes perfectly

the background is OK by me as that's what i see 4+ months of the year, but some might complain about the dark tree on the left

the crop roughly fits the rule of 1/3's - so wouldn't crop any tighter

i'd gladly have it in my collection - great effort

[Manos Papadomanolakis]

Nice details and yellow eyes!!!

[Gary "Jake" Jacobson]

Another gorgeous image Jody! :)