Sandwich Terns "Making Whoopie"

[Marina Scarr]

Spent several days this Spring photographing the Sandwich and Royal Terns mating. After watching their behavior for a few years, you learn to pinpoint when the "deed" is about to transpire. Capturing the Sandich Terns turned out to be more difficult b/c they were difficult to isolate. Therefore, I moved in tighter.

Captured this one late in the day. I love the way the female appears to be nipping the male and that there is a glimpse of her breeding colors inside her mouth.

Canon 1D3, Canon 400DO
F8, 1/2500sec, ISO 40
Handheld down in the sand

C & C always welcomed and appreciated,

Marina

[Haim Ziv]

I love the way you view the image. Turning female's head to the male is fascinating.

[Alan Murphy]

Great decision to move in close. Love the expression on both birds.

[Paul Lagasi]

I like the way the image is composed..sweet moment...TFS

[Jonathan Ashton]

Very nice image - good moment for all concerned!! I may be tempted to apply Shadows/Highlights or Curves to enhance the detail in the dark plumage (but only a little).

[Jean Clark]

Nice catch Marina. Guess it is time for me to check on my shots from way back then.
I like the action you caught here, colors are beautiful and sharp, nice comp.

[Ákos Lumnitzer]

Good work Marina. Love the tight composition here and that's the best at times. Really nicely executed image overall! :)