Yellowlegs

[Bill Dix]

Greater Yellowlegs juvenile, I think. Bill slightly longer than head, but not dramatically, so it might be a Lesser. Any thoughts? Taken in Chincoteague early October, shortly before sunset. I know the reflection isn't mirror-perfect, but that just proves it's a real reflection. I love the geometries these birds make with their legs. This pose, with toe just touching the water, seems to be a favorite of theirs. Did a fair amount of water cleanup, otherwise a few adjustments to levels, usm. C&C appreciated.

D7000, 700mm, ISO 1600, 1/1000s @ f/7.1, +1.7 EV. Gitzo/Mongoose.

[Melissa Groo]

What a beautiful, serene image, Bill, and so painterly. I think it's a lesser too, but not 100% sure myself. Love that reflection. I like the comp, the raised foot, the focus of the bird on the water ahead. Lovely job!

[Kaustubh Deshpande]

Bill, with bill longer than head, must be greater. seems slightly turned upwards as well.

loved the calm water and the pose. excellent exposure. I'd go with just a little more room at the top, if you have.

[Karl Egressy]

Nice picture, Bill. Love the raised foot and the reflection.

[dankearl]

I like the legs a lot. They tend to have a graceful walk and you captured it well.

[Dan Behm]

Bill,
Lots to like about this one. The raised foot and clean reflection all bodes well for this fantastic tack sharp image. Fine work!

Dan

[arash_hazeghi]

excellent colors, nice details and clean water I only wish for lower angle

[Arno Ellmer]

I love the foot pose and the serene setting ,and that you have retained the good reflection.Would also give a little more space on top.
Great shot !

[Paul Guris]

The bird is a Greater due to the long slightly upcurved bill with a pale base. I really like the shot and the reflection. After seeing calls for more room at the top, I'm wondering if the image might work better with a more vertical crop since you're effectively working with a 2x high subject and nothing left or right to really focus on.

[Bill Dix]

Thank you all for the comments. I agree a bit more room at the top could help, and is easily done. Paul, I briefly thought about vertical, but to give the bird some space to move into, and keep the water ripples, it would be close to square unless I put a very large amount of empty space at top. Thanks for confirming my ID.