Long-billed Curlew

[Paul Kusmin]

Here's a re-processed shot from last year.
Early morning sun.

D300 + 500mm f4 AFS-I + 1.4x tele

Exposure: 0.002 sec (1/500)
Aperture: f/7.1
Focal Length: 700 mm
ISO Speed: 200
Exposure Bias: -1/3 EV
Flash: Flash fired

[Steve Maxson]

Beautiful light and a nice low shooting angle, Paul. The food item in the beak is a plus. You might try a bit more sharpening on the head. If this was mine, I would clone most of the OOF light spots in the foreground as they tend to draw my eye. Well done.

[Axel Hildebrandt]

I like the angle, light and eye contact. Another vote for more sharpening, removing of the specular highlights and I would crop a bit off the bottom.

[Jasper Doest]

Curlews are one of my favorite waders...but I never managed to get as close as you got here. Well done. I'd like to suggest a lower shooting angle next time. This will cause the horizon to be at foot level with the bird...

[Simon Bennett]

I like the pose and light.

[Paul Kusmin]

Thanks for the C&C everyone.
My technique has improved quite a bit since this capture and I can't wait for another shot at this cool species.