Northern Gannet Juvenile Dive

[Jim Fenton]

Today was an effort in frustration. I had to send the D300s in to Nikon for some focus issues and upon it's return, testing this morning in non conclusive due to horrible conditions.

I was shooting facing into a straight 40MPH gale with sand blowing like I was in the dessert during a sand storm! It was actually tough to stand when the wind really gusted.

The birds were few and most at great distance.

This in one juvenile Northern Gannet which did come somewhat within reasonable range.

Nikon D300s, 500 VR, TC14EII, ISO 1000, F 6.3 1/800

[Aidan Briggs]

I love the stormy sea, splayed tail, and overcast light. I would like to see a catchlight in the eye though. I do want to stress how much I like this image though.

[Jim Fenton]

I would have liked a catch light as well but given that it was completely cloudy, I was happy just stopping the motion :)

[allanrube]

Focus looks good to me on this one.

[Randy Stout]

Jim:

The tail is great here, great display of in flight aerodynamic adjustment. I like the diagonal line of the birds right wing, neck and head. Nice to see a juvi of this species.

Randy

[Harshad Barve]

This is super shot Jim , Nice pose by bird and we can feel conditions there
TFS

[Danny J Brown]

Hey Jim - The image really conveys how rough it was out there. I hope your sensor survived. You've captured a unique diving pose here and the spots on the gannet are just beautiful. Gotta love that tail display as well. Great action shot!

[Steve Canuel]

Love the body position of this one. You really captured the conditions you described.

[Geoff Malosh]

The tail makes the shot. Usually getting detail on the face is top priority but this image is a good exception. Great action too.