Great Blue Heron

[Steve Deam]

I'm new here, and my first thread... I love the site and look forward to learning a lot here.

I would appreciate feedback on this shot taken in the back waters of Cedar Key, Fl.

Canon 7D / Canon 600MM F4
ISO 400
1/800 F5
Lightroom 3 Beta 2

[Lance Peters]

Hi Steve - a big warm welcome to the BPN family - Dont hesitate to jump right in and comment on other peoples images - all we ask is that you say what you like or dont like about the image - No better way to learn yourself and helps others learn as well.

Nice first post - couple of things to keep in mind - Unless the reflection is really strong probably not worth including - as presented the head is cut off in the reflection - a minor thing you might think - but does draw the eye and is a tad distracting.

This might have presented better in a horizontal orientation - would have been good to include the whole ripple around the feet and given some more room upfront for the bird to gaze into. The head/eye area looks a tad soft and the whites a little bright on my screen.

Looking forward to seeing more :)

[Steve Deam]

Lance,

Thanks for the feedback. I see what you mean about the crop.

Here is a repost. Is the crop close to what you suggest? Too much space behind the bird?

[Lance Peters]

Hi Steve - yes too much space behind the bird - might have to extend the canvas up front a little.

[Dave Mills]

Hi Steve, Welcome! Good recomendation by Lance on the repost and I would add a small bit to the bottom for the virtual feet.

[Steve Deam]

I really appreciate the advice... How's this? Too centered now, or OK?



Head and eyes are still a little soft, but do you prefer the HA in this one?



Thanks

[Alfred Forns]

Big Warm Welcome Steve

Solid advice form Lance and fully agree. Re post wise I like the bottom one better, has a little more room for the bird to look into and the crop ration gives a sense of motion.

I like the clean bg, pose and good exposure ! Looking forward to the next one !!

[Bob Miller]

HI Steve....i like the bg on this and the colors captured in the heron. I agree with crop recommendations above....losing the reflection made the image stronger in the repost. Looking forward to your next post!