I shot this Northern Harrier image at the Bosque a week ago. The light was starting to go, but this Harrier was just getting started. Not the sharpest image of the week, but one of the more compelling because of its color and light.
Canon 1D Mark IV, 600mm + 1.4x, f/5.6, 1/800, ISO 800, manual exposure, hand held
Doug, I don't know that the image is soft. Looks to me more like the focus point wasn't right on the eye. But I love the feeling that the light gives to this image, compelling and dramatic indeed.
A real feel-good shot for me with the different mood, the pose and the bird's left wing, which is glowing like it is on fire. I love harriers! Very nice.
I really like the lighting/mood of this one! Also wish I could hand hold the 600. I tried it a month ago and I still have a pinched nerve in my neck. Great Capture Doug. Your flight images are inspiring!