Mallard Portrait

[Stu Bowie]

This was taken at the University sports grounds of Pretoria. Im very surprised at the size of the tongue.

Canon 50D
100-400 L IS USM @400mm
1/2500
F/6.3
ISO 640

Hand held

[Don Lacy]

Nice light and color especially in the water, my only suggestion would be to crop a little of the right.

[Jim Poor]

The light on this one is definitely warm. Too so I think. I'd reduce, but not eliminate, the warm cast just a touch and maybe add some blacks to the blacks to strengthen things a bit.

I really like the golden molten metal look to the water. Nice!

[Dave Barnes]

I love the colour and the light. I would also take a bit off the right to get back to 2/3 proportions.

[Stu Bowie]

Thanks a lot guys. I have reduced the warmth a tad and done a complete recrop - top, bottom, and right.

[Ákos Lumnitzer]

Tighter repost is better for me mate. I do also love the water colors and the expression of the duck. Congrats!

[Fabs Forns]

Stunning capture, Stuart. I'd hate to be the contrarian but I prefer the original with more space around. Color wise, they both looks good to me.

[Leo Berzins]

Another vote for the original post. Wonderful light and detail.
I especially like the texture of the bow wave (no doubt due to cross interference with the rippled surface).

[Stu Bowie]

Thank you all so much for the varied preferences, and for your valued input and comments.

[Marina Scarr]

Love the detail, soft colors and action of this shot. Have to go with the the original also.

[Mark Dumbleton]

I like the second post Stu. Super timing to capture this. Lovely eye and detail.
Well done Sir!

[Brian Wong]

Hi Stuart!

Maybe just a different spin, if it agrees with your ethics ... but I can see a one mean "fire-spitting" duck with a little adjustment to the background.

[Stu Bowie]

Thanks a lot Brian. Dragon Mallards.