Comb-crested Jacana (Irediparra gallinacea) Fogg Dam NT

[Rod Warnock]

Comb-crested Jacana (Irediparra gallinacea) Fogg Dam NT Australia
Canon EOS 40D Lens 100-400mm L IS USM at 400 mm ISO 400 F7.1 1/1250 Fill flash 5 September 2009
These are truly magic birds to photograph, while the background can be busy..the rewards are high. Even to see the pearly nature of the water on the lotus lily leaves is enough to move even the most stoic observer. The Comb-crested Jacana is no push over but given time things start to happen. Have a gander at those toes !!

Hope you get a glimpse of the joy of photographing these wondrous birds.

Best regards
Rod Warnock

[Ákos Lumnitzer]

Looks like the sun was a little high, but I'd take this anyway myself. Love the huge feet Rod! The environment is so typical of these birds, yet so complementary. There is also lots of feather detail. I know we used to get these in the Hawkesbury occasionally, but I haven't heard of one in ages. I also must say since you have upgraded to a DSLR from your point and squirt camera your digital images have moved forward in leaps and bounds. I have been watching from the sideline. :) Congrats mate. Hope you get your camera and lens back soon and the op is a raging success!

[Jim Crosswell]

I agree with the strong light comment. I like the way the lilies repel the water which shows well in this image. A new bird for me TFS.

[Brian Barcelos]

Those feet are so comical.:D Love the BG in this one as it doesn't detract from the image and nicely shows the environment. You did really well with the light and got plenty of detail throughout. I would tone down the specular highlights, thats all. Congrats

[Tony Whitehead]

You've done very well in difficult light, Rod. I have had frustrating times with harsh light and very busy environment with these birds and this image is lovely. Great to see the feet, lily pads and quicksilver water. The image looks a little flat so I have tried a version with a slight contrast boost and a QM selection to reduce slightly the green cast from the reflected light on the pale belly.

[Rod Warnock]

Thanks a million, Tony !! That is a great improvement. Apart from being a novice at digital processing..the green cast I didn't pick up as I am colour blind so a double thank you.
Best regards
Rod

[Rob Drummond]

Looks like the sun was pretty high Rod but you've come out of it with a great shot. Plenty of detail and you've really conveyed the tropical heat.

cheers
Rob