I wasn't happy about his choice of perch but he seemed to be. 25+mph winds kept him fluttering his wings to keep his balance. The sturdiness in the wind may have dictated his choice of landing since everything natural was whipping back and forth. 40D, 400DO+2xTC, f10, 1/1250, ISO 800, +1/3 EC, monopod mount, cropped from vertical.
Awesome bird Steve, I'd hoped to see one in SE AZ but was just south of their range. Obviously the perch isn't the best, but I know how bluebirds are. Exposure and sharpness are excellent, however I'd like to see the wing a little sharper. I'm surprised 1/1250th didn't accomplish this for you. A little extra space in the bottom might balance this more for me.
I really like the detail and pose especially the open bill you captured here Steve. The color of the bg really sets the bird off quite nicely as well. You always hate to find a great subject on a bad perch but you did the best you could with your crop. TFS
Hi Steve, Ive really enjoyed these bluebirds that you have posted recently. Good sharp detail, and love the eye contact, and open beak. Killer BG. It just shows how fast these little guys flap their wings with the ss you had.
Steve, always love your mountain bbird images. this one no exception. Awesome details and color. perfect catchlight adding lot of life into the shot. I personally dont mind artificial perches much.