mallard and fish

[Hazel Grant]

I think this post could go here. Taken at a marina where many birds including mallards swim around the boats. I took this from the dock and there were lots of very large fish swimming around. I like the general composition but am expecially wondering about the fish in the lower left area. If I cloned them out, I think it would be too empty. What do you think? Any other comments?

Nikon D40x 1/200 f5.6 80mm. iso400 no flash hand held

slight saturation increase, otherwise unedited.

[Axel Hildebrandt]

I think this is one of the few instances where a steep angle helps the image. The fish make the duck look pretty small. Where did you photograph this? I would tone down the highlights and sharpen the mallard a bit more.

[Hazel Grant]

Is it better without the fish?

[Axel Hildebrandt]

I think it is better with the fish. Without them, the steep angle takes away from the image.

[Judy Lynn Malloch]

Another vote for the fish as it makes for a very pleasing and interesting composition. The steep angle works here as it allows one to see the fish too but I agree a little more USM on the mallard would strengthen this capture. Many thanks for sharing.

[Hazel Grant]

Thanks for agreeing with me.... I had thought the fish helped the image, but obviously misunderstood the angle and size of the mallard comment. I'll work on the USM.