Kestrel (female)

[Jonathan Ashton]

Camera Model Canon EOS 50D
Firmware Firmware Version 1.0.7
Shooting Mode Program AE
Tv( Shutter Speed ) 1/800
Av( Aperture Value ) 6.3
Metering Mode Evaluative Metering
Exposure Compensation +1 2/3
ISO Speed 320
Lens EF500mm f/4L IS USM
Flash Off
AF Mode AI Focus AF
I went down to the marsh - it was a high tide today, I was hoping for marsh harriers and short eared owls but nothing came anything like close enough. I had to settle for this shot of a kestrel.
The shot is hand held (along with the dog!)
All comments welcome.

[Scott Frye]

I am not a fan of a white background for nature shots -- but loke to see BIF as they are fun to shoot. I like the crop but the bird looks a bit soft on my monitor

[Jonathan Ashton]

I am not a fan of a white background for nature shots -- you may get more meaningful comments if you were to include the techs -- i.e. f-stop, shutter speed etc.

My mistake - an oversight:o

[Don Lacy]

Hi Jonathon, I really like the fanned tail and think the image has potential but as posted the Kestrel is under exposed, in situation were you have a high key BG you need to expose for the subject and forget about the BG or use flash as the main light on the subject. I pulled the image into PS and adjusted the tonalities of the Kestrel but it would have been better to get it right in camera.

[Jonathan Ashton]

Thanks Don, I appreciate your feedback and re-work. I had to reset the camera quickly as the dog was in the other hand! I gave +1.3EV usually I give +1.7EV or even occasionally +2EV If I have the opportunity.