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Thread: My first Common Loon

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    Default My first Common Loon

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    Excellent couple of weekends at the cottage with a chance to get some photography in. Have seen and heard the loons on the lake for the last two years just didn't have any way of photographing them without using a telescope. This time we had the use of a boat so I went Loon hunting (just for photos - no guns - although the D3s sounds a little like a machine gun on rapid fire mode)!!

    As always, all critique and commentary is welcome. I would love to know what people think of my first attempts to capture this Canadian icon.

    Geek Deets:
    1/800sec @ f/6.3
    300mm, ISO560, 0ev
    Evaluative Metering
    Nikon D3s, AF-S 300mm f/4

    All standard PS work - levels, curves and sharpening.

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    Avian Moderator Randy Stout's Avatar
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    Rob:

    Congrats on your first loon capture. They can get rather addictive, or so I have heard

    I like the placement in the frame, effective DOF.

    The day looked a bit dull, which isn't all bad for loons, because of the exposure challenges on them. I am not a big fan of the silver water look in my own images, and try when possible to work them in closer to the shore line to get some color in the water. One of the advantages of a boat is that you can change your shooting angle in relation to the bird, and have somewhat more control over the background. Of course, the loon has to cooperate too!

    I suspect you will try these lovely fellows again!

    Cheers

    Randy
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    BPN Member jack williamson's Avatar
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    Hello Rob, I think the loon looks excellent. I wish his head was turned our way a bit. Certainely the water is not ideal, maybe you could tone it down some for a more pleasing look.

    Jack

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    Publisher Arthur Morris's Avatar
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    I like the rear flapping pose with a decent head angle and do not mind the silver water look. Now get one in green water and soft early morning light :)
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    I've only ever seen these guys in winter plumage so I am envious of all these beauties being posted. Love the pose with that expanded chest upright and just enough eye to get away with it. Would have liked a bit more head turn but this is good. I actually love when the water looks silver on a clear day with good reflections but Art is right about the early light. Can't beat it.

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