A Wako Beauty

[Richard Waas]

I caught this little beauty on tripod relaxing in the late afternoon at Wakodahatchee Wetlands. the skies were heavily overcast and I had no flash. I'm wondering if the blurred branch in the background is distracting. Thoughts? Canon 1D MK IV, ISO 800, f/5.6, 1/160 sec, +0.67 EV, EF100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM, 400mm, Evaluative Metering, Auto Exposure, Auto WB, No Flash.

[Ann Fiske]

Hi Richard,
Nice detail, HA and BG. IMHO, removal of the oof branch would improve this lovely photo.

Ann

[Richard Waas]

That's one for no branch.....

[Dave Mills]

Hi Richard, make that two. Nice positioning of the subject on a diagonal perch along with good HA. Even lighting and a muted backround.
Might take a small bit off the top...

[Peter Farrell]

Hi Richard,
The branch doesn't bother me but the larger green leaves on the branch do. The bird looks great. What species is this?
Peter

[Julie Brown]

Richard, this is a very nice portrait. I vote for removing the branch.

[Richard Waas]

Then remove the branch it is.... I have no idea what bird this is. A little help on ID would be appreciated.

[Lance Peters]

Another vote for the branch - like the pose, HA , Head turn and the BG compliments the bird very well.
Looking forward to the repost :)

[Ann Fiske]

Hi Richard,
I believe it's a female Boat-tailed Grackle.

Ann

[Oscar Zangroniz]

Hey Richard, more vote for removing the branch. Great details and BG.

[Richard Waas]

Thanks for the comments........

[Harold Davis]

female grackle is correct and the repost is the bomb!! nice job, richard!!!

[Dave Mills]

Good job on the repost...definate improvement!