This morning was cold, breezy and sunny; and I got to photograph the first Pacific Loon I've seen this season -- perfect. The image is minimally cropped and tweaked. I tried to correct the one spot on its neck that was a bit hot. These guys are not very colorful, but often put on a good "fishing show."
This image does not look very sharp on my monitor. However, it's that soft look, the calm water, and the hot spot that actually looks it's glowing that give this image a feel that I like. I guess it also has something to do with the morning light, too. One thing that bothers me is that it looks like the loon is swimming away. Another thing is I would like to see is that you've shot it from a lower perspective. Not necessarily so low that you and the loon see eye to eye, but somewhere between that and what you were shooting from.
Love the mood and feel, great composition. Could be sharper, exposure techs look solid. I might try and tone down hot spots on neck, looks a little unnatural. Well done and a difficult bird to capture this close. Nice day in the life image.
Great points by Desmond particularly the bird being past you a bit !!!
Not sure what went wrong with the AF but it did not lock in, can't see a really sharp area, does happen and its good to have multiples. Light wise with this bird you will need very soft light, having such a bright spot detracts and the alternative would have been even worse ... very dark bird !!
Hope you will find the next one earlier or heavy overcast !!!!
Pacific Loon
Posting Permissions
