Northern Saw-Whet (wild)

[Dave Blinder]

This represents at least 90% of the original shot. There were obscuring branches in all directions and this was the clearest shot possible. I can't see any other composition options being viable or likely, but any thoughts on post-processing? I added some vignetting to subtract from some colorful branches.



approx EXIF data:
full flash (Better Beamer)
ISO 1000
Aperture - F/25
Shutter - 1/125s
Canon 7D
500mm f/4 + 1.4tc
tripod mounted

Taken in New Jersey. I was by myself, and followed a horde of Chickadees and Titmice. My focus is usually on the welfare of sensitive species as opposed to having a 5hr exclusive photo shoot. I stayed for 15 minutes, leaving right after the owl closed its droopy eyes.

[Axel Hildebrandt]

Good find! I like the composition and stare and might sharpen the head a bit less.

[Dave Leroy]

I agree, good find! Also interesting camera settings. I like how you have used the vignetting to reduce effect of branches. Well done. Dave

[Stu Bowie]

Nicely framed amongst the foliage Dave, and love the sleepy look. Great sighting and well captured.

[Daniel Belasco]

Nice find. I think you have gotten about everything out of the image you could.
Nice work.