Sage Grouse

[Roy Priest]

This was taken in Oregon. The lek is on the wrong side of the road so most images are somewhat backlit as soon as the sun reaches the horizon. We hoped for overcast skies but both days we were there the clouds never cooperated.

Date Shot: 4/30/2011
Nikon D700
Lens: VR 500mm F/4G
Focal Length: 700mm
Aperture: F/7.1
Shutter Speed: 1/800s
Exposure Comp.: +0.3EV

[Chris Ober]

Backlighting can produce some dramatic effects. You handled the lighting well here. It would be nice to see more of a profile, the head blends in a bit too much I think. I like the muted tones in the environment and a little more work giving the bird some more color and punch would be great.

[gail bisson]

I love the pose but agree with Chris that the head seems to disappear into his body and neck. Too bad he wasn't looking left or right! I am quickly learning that there is a lot of " wish the sun was here, wish the bird was in this position. wish, wish, wish...!" The light is fine to my eye.
Gail

[Kerry Perkins]

Hi Roy, good capture and composition. Nice detail and color, except maybe on the left side of the grouse where there is a little bit of a blue cast. Agree with comments regarding the head angle, it took me a few seconds to make out the eye and head due to the straight-on look. I like the inclusion of the habitat. Nice field work!