Yard setup. 7:48 A.M. Nikon D700, 300mm F2.8, 1.4 tc, tripod. 1/640, F4, ISO 1000. Cropped to about 60% of original. Recovery in acr, noise reduction on BG, S/H, USM in CS3.
I like the green BG and sharpness. The reds in the Cardinal look a little subdued. I do find the perch to be a little big for this bird. ISO 1000 didn't seem to hurt you, but I don't think you needed it. I might tone down the beak a little.
Good inquisitive pose, and I like the overall placement of the cardinal. As long as its not a fence post, Im fine with any other perch within reason. I do like your BG, and agree with Doug that the reds seem a little washed out, compared to other cardinals posted on the site.
Fine choice of Bg for your set up. Perch is a bit big for the subject and the angle seems a touch too steep. Should be able to controll these things in a set-up. Bird seems to lack some punch in the color as well. Like the composition. Perhaps a bit less canvas on the right .
Thanks for all the input. I must have 30 cardinals visiting my yard presently and this is the best looking one of the bunch. For whatever reason they are all quite ugly right now and their colors are much subdued compared to the spring. Doug the sun dappled through a large crepe myrtle that this was under right as this bird landed. ISO 1000 @ 1/640 was too much for this shot and the top of the head and the beak were blown. Thanks.Jack
Excellent shot. Real nice detail and pose. The background is just amazing and I agree on the perch being a little big, but still and amazing pic. Well done.