Tufted Titmouse

[Mike Milicia]

EOS-1D Mk III, 500mm f/4 + 1.4xII, 1/1250, f/8, ISO 400
About 90% of Full Frame

Photographed a few weeks ago at Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary
in Topsfield, MA.

The "backyard" birds at this Mass Audubon property are very accustomed to being
fed by visitors. The Chickadees and Nuthatches will take seed right
out of your hand. I laid some branches on the side of a stone bridge
where I could get some direct sunlight and put out seed to attract the
birds. Unfortunately, this guy chose one of the least attractive sections
of perch but I was still pleased as this was my first decent opportunity
with this common species.

Looking forward to your comments and critiques !

[Aidan Briggs]

Nice light and pose, Mike. I do agree that the perch is not very interesting. The shadow below the tail is undesirable, but there was not much you could do about that.

Overall, an excellent image.

[Art Kornienko]

Not really bothered by the perch that much but find the light a little harsh and would expect a little better sharpness from your combo especially at 90% crop, handheld or on tripod?

[Mike Milicia]

Not really bothered by the perch that much but find the light a little harsh and would expect a little better sharpness from your combo especially at 90% crop, handheld or on tripod?

Tripod.

Looks like I had the output sharpening turned off in my jpeg action.
Here is a new version with my standard sharpening applied.
Look any better?

[Taylor Yeager]

Hi Mike,

A good start. The bird is perfect as usual. For such a common bird a more exciting BG or perch would help. New website looks great.

Taylor

[Arthur Morris]

The repost is better. You might consider lightening the iris a bit. Here is the general rule: the birds will almost always land in the worst spot. Best to eliminate all of the bad spots and leave them no choice....

[Maxis Gamez]

Excellent work! Love the head angle and catchlight!

[Art Kornienko]

Much better, lovely indeed.