Canon EOS 40D
1/1000 second, Tv, +2/3 EV
F/7.1
ISO 320
Canon 400 mm f5.6L
Hand-held
Processed with Lightroom and NIK software
cropped about 1/3 from top and side, set black and white points, highlight recovery, increased contrast
This image was shot on July 4 at Blue Mesa Reservoir, part of the Curecanti NRA in Gunnison County, Colorado-about 4 hours southwest of Denver. I think the markings on the breast indicate that this bird is in breeding plumage. According to the range maps in the Sibley Guide and Cornell's All About Birds, Willets breed in Wyoming and far northern Colorado. :confused: Not knowing shorebirds, I first thought it might be a Dowitcher, but here it is on a gravel bar, not a mud flat. I have another image of the bird in flight, and the wing pattern clinched the ID for me.
Interesting crop. Like the habitat included. I might crop it just a bit tighter were it mine. JMHO. Water color is very nice and adds to this fine image.
I like your comp idea but I agree with Joe that a bit tighter crop would work. Keep the pano, but crop about 1/3 of the empty space behind the bird, and a bout half the water at bottom - I think this would strenghten the comp.
I like the gravel bar habitat, and the incoming water looks good. Light looks harsh though and reducing the contrast would be beneficial. You could also use the dodge tool (soft brush, and no stronger than about 8-10% opacity) to reduce the shadow on the Willet's belly (P.S. correct ID and age).
Birds in Habitat: Willet
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