Black-headed Heron

[Dave Barnes]

I think that many may prefer more space around this one but I like the comp.
It makes maximum use of the pixel equity to show detail.
This is a very minor crop from the left and canvas has been added on the right.
The original has been increased in size by 6%.
The image has been flipped horizontally.
I think a bird flying from left to right looks better?
This image was made with my 30D when my 1D went in for repairs. (I am happy with the quality produced)

Canon 30D
Canon 500 f4
ISO 400
f5.6
SS 1/2000
Exp comp +2/3

[Morkel Erasmus]

I like the comp as is Dave - interesting that we got similar positions but different wingstrokes haha
some super sharp plumage detail here - that 500 f4 sure is a fine lens (at a fine price ;)). I agree with you - flying left to right makes it easy to follow since we read that way (at least in the West). :)

[Stu Bowie]

Excellent wing position Dave, and I like the aerodynamic shape from the head to the feet. Colours look good, and I wouldnt change the comp, as adding space infront wont improve this image in any way.

[Daniel Cadieux]

Excellent downstroke wing position, and the comp seems fine to me. I have no personal preference which direction a bird flying or pointing towards. I would apply an additional round of sharpening for web presentation, especially to the face and back. Although I can understand your phrase contextually I still don't fully understand the term "pixel equity"?

[Axel Hildebrandt]

I like the light and wing position and the crop works for me, too. Another vote for more sharpening (except the legs).

[Nagesh Mula]

Its a beautiful shot, nice action captured. I am not sure about Sharpening bu this image looks very good to me as it is.

[Dave Barnes]

Thanks to all for looking and for comments.
I have run an additional round of sharpening as suggested.
I am always reticent to over sharpen and do not like the fine detail to become too crunchy as on the the birds neck and back on this repost.
I also see a halo starting to form around the legs but i think this is from the jpeg compression for web.
Daniel I use the term "pixel equity" to refer to the total resource of pixels available from the camera. By cropping or reducing the size of the main subject we are discarding some of the pixel equity or the quantity available to define detail. I feel that the investement of your pixel equity must be carefully considered.

[Daniel Cadieux]

Oh yeah, the repost sharpening is a big improvement. Way to go! Thanks for clearing up the term "pixel equity". I understand what you mean, just haven't heard it called this way before :-)

[Dave Barnes]

Thanks Daniel, appreciated.

[Chris Kotze]

Super shot Dave great detail and sharpness