Another ibis

[Hilary Hann]

Some months back I posted a different view of this ibis but it just lacked something for me. I discounted this one originally because I couldn't get enough detail in the white feathers, having over exposed them. From what I've learned here, I've managed to extract more detail from the feathers, hopefully enough so would be interested in opinions on whether the image works or not.

Taken early morning, so have some rich, warm lighting on the background trees. Any C&C welcomed. Thank you.

7D; 300mm; f5.6; 1/1000; ISO 800

[Troy Lim]

I like the setting of this image. The early morning light.
This is a tough one, big contrast on bird, low light and complete black on the bird's beak.

[Connie Mier]

Despite the shortcomings as mentioned, I love this composition. Well seen.

[Tom Graham]

Think overall color balance and white on chest is v good. Can you lighten and get some detail on head and beak? Not a lot, just some. Would also crop 10-15% off of top. Keep water reflection exactly as is. Feel you are close to a very nice, interesting, composition. Not just another BOS or BIF with blah BG. Try it and repost, I'd like to see it.
Tom

[Hilary Hann]

Tom, there just isn't any more detail on the beak. I have other shots with great beak and face light but as soon as the bird turned to preen, of course the light was lost. My dilemma is whether to have the nice preening 'action' or go for the beak and face.

As far as the cropping goes, a few months ago I posted a similar shot but cropped horizontally. I ended up preferring this one as I liked the depth of colour in the trees in the background. So I take your point, but because I've tried quite a few of the options this one, for me, is aesthetically the best. In the eye of the beholder I suppose, but thank you for taking time to post comments, I appreciate them all.

BTW, I'd give anything to have some of those BIF photos in my portfolio! :D

[Daniel Cadieux]

I like the overall feel to the image. Good habitat and the comp is a good one. There are still some blown feathers (see neck), and the lack of detail in the face caused by the heavy shadow is unfortunate.

My dilemma is whether to have the nice preening 'action' or go for the beak and face.

Without hesitation I would go for the beak and face over the preening pose...the head is turned away a bit too much anyhow...

Stiil, good eye in seeing the scene in front of you:)

[Hilary Hann]

Thanks Daniel, I'll go back and look at the other poses again.

[DanWalters]

Great light and I like the comp with the inclusion of the environment. Maybe just a little more room under the reflection.

[Hilary Hann]

This is another view of the ibis with light on the beak and face. I would be very interested in your views on whether this is a better view of the bird. Have added a bit more room under the reflection.

[Daniel Cadieux]

Hilary, the repost is a much more pleasing view of this Ibis. Even though there is no behaviour, the image has much more connection with the viewer because of the lit face/better HA.

[Hilary Hann]

Thank you Daniel, sometimes it is hard to be objective about your own images. I'll stick with this second one.

[Troy Lim]

Hilary,
Very nice repost, see the ibis' face.
TFS.

[Hilary Hann]

Thanks Troy