Red-necked Grebe & rider

[Steve Maxson]

My apologies to those expecting to see chicks, but this time it's a spider. :) I like images that are a little different so I was attracted to this one. I would wish for a somewhat cleaner background, but this pond is covered by lily pads which make the background a challenge even at a low shooting angle. I removed some specular highlights from the bird. 40D, 500 f/4 + 1.4X, 1/800, f/8, ISO 400. Comments are welcome.

[Scott Frye]

I have never seen this species and I have never seen a spider hitching a ride on any duck. Very unique photo. I like everything from the neck up

[David Gancarz]

It's surprising the grebe tolerates the spider. Those friendly midwesterners.

[Arthur Morris]

Nice pose by the spider. The only way to reduce the impact of the lily pads would be to get in the water if possible and shoot from just above the water's surface. Not easy I know. A floating blind with waders would help to. Never done that but would love to before I die.

[Juan Aragonés]

Hey Steve, you do not need to apologize by the lack of chicks, the spider on the head is much better :-)

[Stephen Earle]

That spider is just too much!! Great image here Steve.

[Morkel Erasmus]

very unique image! this is what photography is about - we sometimes get so lost in the technicalities that we miss the spectacular opportunities when they present themselves. love it!

[Axel Hildebrandt]

The spider makes this one for me. I don't know if a lower angle was an option but I agree that would have been the only way to prevent the distractions.

[Stu Bowie]

I would bring out more detail on the spider, and wish for more eye contact from him too. LOL. Great double Steve, and the Grebe is nice and sharp. Well captured.

[Randy Stout]

Steve:

Very fun image. My only slight criticism is that the catchlight in the spider's eye is a bit small. See if you can work on that. :):)

Cheers

Randy