"Final Approach"

[Gus Cobos]

“Final Approach”

Note: The harsh light and sun angle was not very cooperative with me; thus the prominent shadows in the under wings.

This swift little guy was banking on his final approach before landing, at Long Key Nature Center in Davie Florida. He was painted with a Nikon D70s, using a Nikkor AF-S 300mm f/4 D IF-ED lens, and a Nikkor 1.7 T/C.

Image solution:
focal length @ 765mm / exposure mode @ aperture priority / in camera matrix metering / ISO @ 400 / 1/1760sec. - f/8 / white balance @ auto / AF - mode @ dynamic range, auto - continuous / color space @ sRGB /lighting solution - no speedlight, ambient light / exposure comp @ -0.7EV / tone comp @ +1 degree / hue adjustment @ +2 degrees / saturation factor @ +1 degree / support platform - no tripod, hand held /

Comments greatly appreciated...:cool:

[Oscar Zangroniz]

Love the expression. Considering the harsh light, you still came up with a winner.

[Richard Waas]

The incoming birds certainly weren't cooperating, but still a great catch. Congrats!!

[Lance Peters]

looks to me like you have handled the harsh light very well :)
Love the pose and expression :)

[denise ippolito]

Gus, It was GREAT to finally meet you!! Nice pose and details look good!! The expression is adorable!

[Jackie Schuknecht]

Great pose and wing spread Gus! The lighting doesn't bother me too much. Love the landing gear (legs) at the ready.....

[Alfred Forns]

Hi Gus That is a fine image you made without the flash !!!! btw the bird seems to have a look of concern .. maybe he has trouble landing !!!1

[Katie Rupp]

Hi Gus, neat pose and love the expression.

[Harold Davis]

nicely done, gus.....by his expression i think he is now figuring that he forgot to make reservations!!!

[KurtPreston]

You handled the under shadows very nicely! I frequently am out shooting osprey in those lighting conditions and it can be a pain in the rear to deal with.