While not spectacular in any way, this image represents a success for me. I've had my 500mm f4 for only three weeks, and finally am getting some practice time at the local bird refuge. I also used my new Wimberly II and a 1.4x on my Canon 1DS MK3. I was experimenting with different metering and AF modes. It was fun, when there was some action or anything within capture range. Otherwise, I was practicing my patience! This bird thing is new to me, and I feel like a newbie after years of accomplishment in landscape, nature, and some architecture. Thanks for any comments, including species ID.
Looks like a Mallard drake to me. Might be one of the mongrel cross breeds that I see out a lake Los Carneros from time to time. I've never been fortunate enough to shoot with a lens like that so I imagine it comes with a unique set of challenges (and backaches). The pose on the duck is good. A lower angle and more direct (and softer) light would help. Looking forward to more and maybe I'll see you around the water some day.
Yes, mallard. The thing working against you was the light angle. His face is in the shadow while the rest of the body is well lit.
Remember, for best results, try to keep the sun behind you, your shadow pointing to the bird, unless you are specifically playing with a certain light effect.
Congrats on your new toy, may you enjoy it in good health many years :)
I love Mallards! I like the head angle. The light angle appears to have been coming from your right, look at the head/neck shadow on the back. That makes it really hard to get the green head to pop. I have taken a lot of duck pictures, and find that being off the light angle a few degrees can really make it difficult to bring up the color.
Mallards are great to practice on, usually pretty tame, so you can refine your tech. I do agree that a lower camera position would improve the image also, but I know that isn't always possible.
My best Duck yet.
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