Avocet take-off. Does it work?

[Kaustubh Deshpande]

40D. 400 f5.6L, f/6.3, 1/2000s, iso 400. manual metering.

Bird was very close and I was taking some nice full frame shots. Since the water was deep, I had composed with enough room for virtual legs. Suddenly took off. I wasn't expecting a keeper but fired nevertheless. No room above. Had to add some canvas in front. Liked the curve of the muddy droplets.

With so much being cut off, does it work?

[Jonathan Ashton]

I think you have caught some terrific action there ....... but sorry I would like to see the wings.

[Geoff Warnock]

I agree with Jonathon, I'd like to see wings, but as presented the image still has a lot of interest (and oomph!).

[Mike Fuhr]

I like this one, although it is a bit different. Because it is different. Very nice.

Nice action captured and the exposure and sharpness look right on. It doesn't bother me one bit that the wings are cut off. The action is in the feet...

[Jim Crosswell]

I like the action in the feet, colours, exposure and sharpness. The image makes me want to see the scene in its totality. Still a nice image Kaustubh!

[Marina Scarr]

Yes it does work. However, it would work a tad better with a little mire of the wings. There is a lot to like here and its a different perspective.

[arash_hazeghi]

Hi Kaustubh, if you want my honest opinion this one does not work.

[Dan Brown]

Not typical and OOTB but I would keep it if it were mine. The sharpness, good exp. and action/behavior are good IMO. You could add canvas on the left and use it as a website banner. I think it would make a neat print as is also (OOTB but artistically cool!).

[Robert Holguin]

Real nice action you captured here. The mud flying off the feet, the taking off pose, really great detail and sharp. I personally think it works. Its different and that is what I think makes this shot work for me. Well done.

[Stu Bowie]

KD, Lots to look at, at the bottom of the image, and just love the trailing mud droplets. Unfortunately, I too, would have liked to see the full wing.

[Vivaldo Damilano]

I like it although would prefer the wings in the picture. Still like the water splash and sharp bird... it definitely a keeper

[RakeshDhareshwar]

The action is brilliant , but wings would have made this one fly

[John Chardine]

It works very well IMO. The crop without the wings allows the viewer to focus on the face of the bird and the droplets and feet. This is a very clever image and I would love it on my wall. Congratulations Kaustubh.

[Chris Ober]

Works for me too. Would look good as a top header or something. Maybe add some more to the left.

[Dave Leroy]

I am also in the camp that this is a fine photo giving a different take on the Avocet and the action.

Having the wings would also have been an excellent photo but different.

The only thing I might look at would be a bit more room in front.

Very well done to catch the action and your typical low angle is perfect.

Dave

[Kaustubh Deshpande]

Thx everyone for all the comments. Very much appreciated.

[Dumay de Boulle]

IQ, light and pose is fanatstic...Love the splash...I like it. I would also like to see the wings but I like it as presented. It has a rel magazine print feel about it!

[EzhilSuresh]

A top class shot. I like the water droplets/splash as they certainly take the attention away from the clipped wings. Would have loved to see the full bird.