Northern Hawk Owl Close-up (baited)

[Nicolas Frève]

Sorry for the wings, this crop is not voluntary...

Date/Time	04-Mar-2009 14:38:14
Make	Nikon
Model	NIKON D3
Flash Used	No
Focal Length	500 mm (handheld)
Exposure Time	1/2500 sec
Aperture	f/9
ISO Equivalent	640
White Balance	auto.
Metering Mode	matrix
Exposure Program	aperture priority

Thanks for looking!

[Randy Stout]

Nicholas:

I actually find the crop fairly compelling, because of the 90 degree angle between the wings, the nice position of the body. Excellent exposure and DOF. The only thing I might try is to brighten the eyes a bit.

Thanks for sharing.

Randy

[Ramon M. Casares]

It owrks for me, love the tight crop, the great pose and stunning detail, sharpness is grreat as well and light is terrific! Congratulations!

[Daniel Cadieux]

Increasing the saturation on the eyes and bill would really liven things up (the sponge tool set at about 8% works great for small local touch ups like this). Great oncoming flight shot!!

[David Hemmings]

I love this composition, the head on works great and the sharpness is good. Nice work!

[Axel Hildebrandt]

The composition and incoming pose are very cool. I agree regarding raising the saturation.

[Nicolas Frève]

Saturation now raised.
Thanks for your recommendations and comments!:)