Grackle

[Jackie Schuknecht]

Took this today.
40D
AV mode
Evaluative
+1/2 stop
1/200s
Tripod 100-400 @400
5.6
ISO 400
Cropped to vertical
Not the greatest perch I know.
Haven't commented on too many photos lately because I have lost a kitty (had to put her down on Wedneday). So picture taking and editing seem to be pulling me through at the moment.
I will hopefully make some by the end of the W/E. My apologies.

[Nonda Surratt]

I'm sorry about your kitty, so sad. Hope things begine to look a bit brighter soon.

Really like your Grackle, love the flared feathers and you got good color on the head/neck area. Point made on the perch, pretty color tho'. Like the soft conifer branched in the BG. The one that looks to be coming right out of the beak could go maybe.

[Lance Peters]

Hi Jackie :(

Agree with Nondas assesment - do like the pose and good detail in blacks - looking forward to seeing more :)

[David DesRochers]

Sorry about your cat. Lost mine two years ago so I understand how you feel.

You did a nice job on this subject. A little fill flash at -1 2/3 would help with some of the shadows. The evergreen branches in the back ground are a bit distracting. The rest of the BG is great. Repositioning your shot may have helped.

[Dave Mills]

Hi Jackie...sorry about your cat. We had one for 17 years...part of the family.
I like the bird's pose and I can see detail in all areas. The branches are a bit distracting but not critical. My suggestion is you crop about 1/2 the rail the bird is sitting on. This will enhance the center of interest and better balance the comp. Nice capture....

[Ákos Lumnitzer]

So sorry about your kittie. I do feel for you. :( Wish you better soon.

Like what everyone said. I think I would crop that perch in half, the light seemed a bit strong. Still a nice image though. :)

[Harold Davis]

hi jackie, sorry to hear about your kitty. i can only imagine if i lost one of my two even though they constantly terrorize me. love your grackle. techs covered nicely above. it's good to see you back on. hopefully some nice spring weather will make things a little better!!

[denise ippolito]

Jackie, So sorry to hear about your kitty-It is so very sad to hear.

Your Grackle looks very good-Nice pose with open mouth! I would minimize the perch as suggested by Dave.

[Gus Cobos]

Lady Jackie,
I'm so sorry about your kitty cat, I know how you feel, been there before...:( I like your composition and capture. the techs. have been addressed, with the good advise...I would suggest on cropping the perch about 1/4 from the bottom...congrats on a fine image...:):cool:

[KurtPreston]

I'm so sorry about your cat, I am going to go to pieces when I eventualy lose my Sam. Love the exposure on the grackle! The BG dowsn't bother me and I think you handled the harsh lighting very well. I think it's great when they puff out on you :)

[Oscar Zangroniz]

Hi Jackie, sorry to hear about your cat. I'm going to go through the same real soon with one of my dogs and I don't even want to think when that day comes.
Awesome details and capture on your Grackle.
Congrats

[Natalie Stowe]

Sorry to hear about your kitty. We went through the same not long ago and it's not easy.

Like you puffed up grackle. Awesome colours and very sharp.
Natalie

[Alfred Forns]

So sorry to hear about the kitty I know how hard it is !!!

You know grackles are my favorites and that in one fine specimen !!!

[Katie Rupp]

Hi Jackie, I like the pose and the background and your exposure is right-on. Sorry for your loss, I know that hurts.