Square-tailed Kite

[Ákos Lumnitzer]

Captured this image with a borrowed 1DMkIII and 500/4 IS + 2x, 430EX and Better Beamer also used. Image was cropped by 20% for composition. Not an easy place to shoot. Raptor is one of Australia's rarest species. And when I say borrowed, I mean the guy let me plug my card in for five minutes or so, that was it. :o The second eyass is just visible between mom and the one to the right.

ISO640, f/8, 1/320th, tripod.

[Tony Whitehead]

Very nice, Akos. Lovely head angles on both, light and BG look good. Might clean up the little stick poking up from the back of the adult.

[Axel Hildebrandt]

Great find, details, setting and BG, I also like the double eye contact. I would remove both sticks sticking out of the adult.

[Ákos Lumnitzer]

Thanks guys. I have considered the removal of the sticks. I think it's a good move. :)

[Marina Scarr]

Hi Akos:

I love the story this picture tells. Both head angles are great. It's sharp and the colors are great. The feather in the nest is an added plus. I have to agree with Axel on this one. I would QM both sticks behind the adult and it would render the picture even more powerful. Great capture!

[Ákos Lumnitzer]

Thank you for the suggestions, now that I am getting the hang of QM techniques, I will amend the stick(s). I did think whether to remove or leave, opted for the lazy choice. :)

[Aristotle Georgiou]

Great shot of these two Akos!

Nice composition, excellent eye contact and the angle is perfect! It almost feels like you are sitting with them.

Well done

[Tony House]

Certainly got a good 2xtc, mines only good for a paper weight.

Nice comp and the detail on the chick looks great.....

Nice work.
Tony

[Arthur Morris]

The head angles are killer good. Removing the stick in the back is a simple chore.