Birds in Habitat: Black-necked Stilt

[Jason G. Harrison]

Observed a male and female BN Stilt in several courtship displays. I captured this female after such a session on her way back to the nest, which already had chicks in it. Guess with the continued courtship displays, they were not quite done yet:o.

Self Critique: I am thinking of going back and re-processing this for more room. I have a bit more room to give it on top, as I feel it might be a tad too tight on the crop.

D300, 600VR, 1.4tc, f/7.1, ISO 400, 1/1600th, -.3EV compensation



Hope you enjoyed and as always C&C welcomed and encouraged.

[Kaustubh Deshpande]

Jason, the pose is terrific and angle of the bird to the sensor is perfect. Light was clearly working against you. Liked the habitat a lot. Yes, it does need more room IMO. at bottom, top and front. So if you just have more room at top and add it, might not look balanced. A little warming up can also help I feel.

[Austin Thomas]

Hi Jason,

A lovely subject and the raised foot is a real bonus. The light does look a little harsh and I agree with your self critique. In addition I would add some back to the bottom as well as I am guessing the "hidden" foot is out of the frame.

tfs

Austin

[Arthur Morris]

Yes, this needs more room all around especially below where you have cut off the virtual feet. Sharpness excellent. Raised foot and and perfect subject orientation are plusses.

[Jason G. Harrison]

Here is another try. I may have went too far in recovering the harsh shadows, but detail is still there. I also added some warmth to the shadow area, and a tiny bit to the overall image.



Thanks,

Jason

[Arthur Morris]

It is much better with more room and the reduced contrast. All that I would do now is lighten/brighten the red iris.

[Daniel Cadieux]

The repost looks much better, the comp nice and roomy. I love how the bird's raised ankle is wrapped AROUND a grass stem...very cool!!