I like the pose, light, and sharpness. The composition works well. I think you could go a little blacker on the blacks. Too bad we didn't cross paths at the Bosque.
I agree with Doug - I would prefer to see deeper blacks and a little more contrast (simple levels adjustment in PS). It's a difficult balance with a dark bird, but I think you nailed it. The head angle, composition, and exposure are all well done. Also a nice light background to make the dark bird stand out.
Joerg
we must have said hello last week, I was therewith Artie and said hellow to many photographers. The blackbirds when they landed on the weeds make a lovely picture. I agree with the above comments
Thank you all for the kind feedback. I was shooting to the far right to maximize detail in the blackbird at the expense of the reeds which were partially blown. I brought them back with a highlight adjustment in CS5 but I guess I could have backed off a bit on the exposure in the first place.
And, Myer and Doug, seeing your avatar pics now I realize that I actually saw you both at Bosque. Myer, we actually chatted briefly last week at the cut cornfield - don't remember the day though. And Doug, you were standing next to me on Saturday morning photographing the geese in the field right to the cornfield. Sorry for not recognizing you both and introducing myself. Perhaps BPN can release a woolcap with the BPN logo for next year to make it easier...:)