Sandpiper #2: Spotted

[Bill Dix]

Another from Bombay Hook. This Spotted Sandpiper, of course, doesn't have spots in non-breeding plumage; although if you look carefully you can see some vestige of spots on the breast. This is the first time I've gotten a close look at this species. Unfortunately, as he was moving deliberately along the rocks (not giving me a head turn, but focused on his mission) I had to shoot through gaps in some foreground grasses to get a low angle. The lower third of the image showed a greenish haze, which I struggled to get rid of with some selective de-saturation and contrast adjustment, but parts of the image seem just a little soft as a result.

D7000 | 500f4 + 1.4 | ISO 800 | 1/1250s @ f/7.1 | +0.7 EV | gitzo and mongoose

[adrian dancy]

I love the pose/stride....different, but the head is a tad soft and the rock behind the bird a little too high but all in all a pleasing image.

[Cheryl Arena Molennor]

Cool habitat and action here. Not to take away from the image as I do like it, there is a weird long line or spot about 2 inches to our left of the back of the head. Love those moving feet.

[Bill Dix]

Cool habitat and action here. Not to take away from the image as I do like it, there is a weird long line or spot about 2 inches to our left of the back of the head. Love those moving feet.

Good eye, Cheryl. I'm not sure what that is - I hadn't noticed it before - but it's easily removed. Thanks for spotting it.

[Robert Holguin]

Great action shot. I really like the walking/running pose.
Well done.

[Stu Bowie]

Bill, good walking pose, and I like the intent. Good detail captured, and I dont mind the surrounding rocks, but would love to see a little more room below.

[Raul Padilla]

i like the pose and actitude, great actitude

[Bill Dix]

Thanks, all, for your comments.