Nice job Colin. Although I usually agree with Jack I don't see any softness, looks tack sharp to me.
A purist might like to clone our the bark that is peeling before and aft of the bird but I don't think it needs it.
Beautiful subject. Nice colours in the BG. My first instinct was that I saw some softness too. I'd prefer about 1/3 less space at right and the same amount added at left. Stan, I see your point about the peeling bark but a purist would not remove them...a minimalist would
Hi Colin, good pose, and I like how the two bits of loose bark curl away from the tree at either end of the bird. I do like the colours of the BG. I would try some selective sharpening on the bird.
Colin, liked this a lot. good job positioning yourself and timing the head position. terrific pose and Bg colors. agree it looks a bit soft...some selective sharpening might fix it.
Good one ! Colin!! Leave the bark as is for sure. Agree with Daniel Cadieux on presentation and with those who suggest selective sharpening of the bird. Typical foaging pose werll caughgt.
Best regards
od Warnock