Captured at Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, CA., just as it took off after hunting for critters on the ground. I locked the Shutter speed and apertured at shown settings and allowed the ISO to adjust for correct exposure. Comments and suggestions appreciated. Thanks for looking. Nikon D3
1/1600s f/8.0 at 850.0mm iso4500
Beautiful image Hugh, I like the foreground weeds that anchor the image. ISO 4500?!!! Great pose & light on this little falcon, looks like the bird was flying from shadows into the light, good idea on the auto ISO. I see just a little bit of noise but would be thrilled beyond belief with this image!
I had to read that ISO a number of times and still find it hard to accept. Love this image for me the only nit pick would be the birds wing just clipping the bush. if only it was slightly higher or could a bit of space be made in post production.