Oka Hummer

[pat lillich]

was out at Oka ponds this morning, not seeing much in the low light. Then this little guy grabbed a gnat and then sat down on a branch just a little more than focusing distance from me. I was so excited I didn't notice the blamed oof branch in front of his left foot. Oh well.

1/640 sec at f/4.5, iso 640, 500mm f/4L, 1dmk4, handheld, manual

light dropped just before i took this frame, so increased exposure 1/2 stop and cropped it in lr, then pulled it into photoshop for noise reduction and to try to brighten it up a bit. any suggestions for improvement always appreciated...

[Kerry Perkins]

Hi Pat, nice capture of this colorful little bird. I like the different pose and open bill. I would clone out the OOF nubbin of branch. I would probably have opted for f/4 to get just a bit more shutter speed. The eye could use a bit of work, suggest darkening it overall and reducing the size of the highlight. Might take a bit off the top as well. Good job on the capture!

[Jeff Cashdollar]

Kerry hit the main points, really like this picture. it is unique and love the open bill look. This picture is all about color and composition. Might try a slight curves adjustment to bring out more detail and tonal range - just and ideal - all subject stuff.

[Dan Brown]

Nice pose captured! I think darkening the eye would help. Assuming the highlight is the setting sun, I would not clone or mess with it but, darkening the eye overall should reduce the size of the highlight or at least it's prominence IMO!