Barred Owl

[Jackie Schuknecht]

This was taken in the wild on a foggy morning on a day spent with Ray Barlow. Slight crop, sharpening, smoothing brush for noise, and NIK darken/lighten center.
40D 500 mm AV mode +1/3 Evaluative
ISO 200
1/60s f5.6
I know the SS is low but I didn't want to go any higher ISO for the noise.
The full frame looks much shaper.
Comments Appreciated.

[Axel Hildebrandt]

I think the sharpness looks fine and I like the inclusion of the habitat. I might remove the diagonal branch 'sticking out' of the shoulder and would increase contrast and adjust the midtones. This way you still keep the sense of fog but it looks less washed out.

[Aidan Briggs]

I agree with Axel 100%. I would lose the thin diagonal branch sticking out of the birds shoulder

[Bill McCrystyn]

What a nice enviromental shot. Beautiful Owl. The perch is very good. The small adjustments mentioned above would put this one over the top. Good Job.

[Raymond Barlow]

very well done Jackie... it was a wonderful day with you and Mike.

I just processed my first foggy owl shot, will post soon.

[Michael Bertelsen]

Wonderful Barred Owl shot Jackie. Dig the catch light in both eyes, and the fog is giving off a lovely soft light.

Cheers,

Michael Bertelsen
www.algonquinparkphototours.com

[Jackie Schuknecht]

Thanks for the comments, I debated about the branch, but will take it out and work on the contrast a bit.

[Jackie Schuknecht]

Repost. Took in all the suggestions, thanks.