Superb Starling

[Paul Marcellini]

These guys were everywhere in Africa. I figured it would be easy to get a really good shot of them but things just never worked out. At one lodge they came in around lunch time but it was a bit overcast. I got this one and am happy to have it at least.

5d2, 500 f4, 20mm ext tube, ISO: 800 Aperture: 4 Shutter: 1/160 Exp. Comp.: +0.7 Tripod mounted

[Steve Maxson]

Lovely colors, Paul and the open-mouthed pose is a big plus. The comp is nice as well. I wonder if the eye couldn't stand a bit more sharpening. Well done.

[Axel Hildebrandt]

Beautiful bird and calling pose. I also like the soft light and might put the bird a bit higher in the frame.

[Ramon M. Casares]

Amazing pose, light and colors! Stunning exposure and detail, BG is simply beautifull and it suggest ambient wonderfully , I don´t think this one could be any better. Big congratulations Paul!

[Juan Carlos Vindas]

Lovely bird Paul.

I like everything about it! My only suggestion is to try to fix the eye a little.

[Fabs Forns]

Man, they have BIG eyes!! Good to get at least one, not too shabby :)

It must have been such a great experience for you!!!

[Alex Mody]

Very very nice! I wouldn't want to shoot these guys in anything other than overcast light, I don't think.

[Stu Bowie]

Amazing colours captured Paul, and very well exposed too. Lovely pose, and well timed to show the open beak.

[Glenn Bartley]

The colours of this bird are fantastic!

[Marina Scarr]

The details in this bird are so outstanding, that I feel as though I could reach out and touch it. The colors absolutely pop, and the open beak an added plus. In a perfect world, a less distracting BG may have put this one in a class of its own. Overall, just a superb image, and thank you for sharing these wonderful AFrican captures, Paul.

[Paul Marcellini]

Thanks everyone, no canvas below unfortunately. Not sure what you are seeing about the eye. its sharp at 100%, or do you mean bring down the exposure?

[susanschermer]

Wow Paul! Nice work with a close-up ring. I guess you had opportunity to plan.
Beautiful bird - nice lens.