The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.
Description
The bee-eaters return to the same place most years. It’s an awkward place for humans, not so for these daring little aviators of the sky. The pair usually raise two chicks.
Of course, the branch they prefer to rest on between flights is a messy entanglement of sticks.
Specific Feedback
The small branch in the background is the launching pad. Would it be best gone?
Does the composition seem awkward?
Technical Details
ISO3200 150-600@600mm f6.3 1/2500 HH
A bit of stick removal and background taming. Big crop.
Critique Template
Use of the template is optional, but it can help spark ideas.
What a wonderful catch, with lovely symmetry on the wings. The motion on the wings is not an issue for me as the body is sharp and detailed. Quite admirable to catch this one so nicely in obviously subdued light.
I think the stick works well, to show that it just took flight. It might be subdued in contrast just a bit toward the LL corner?? (Maybe a good area to use a tweak of cloning with low opacity – several strokes of varying length at 20-30% opacity to feather in the effect?
Had to do a triple take on this one, as the head makes it appear like the bird is upside-down. I had to remind myself that bee-eater often crane their necks upward in flight.
A wonderful capture, as it provides a look at ALL the colors. I think the empty space surrounding the subject is a bit too vast, and a slightly tighter crop would help embolden the bird.
Awesome shot, Glennie. The display of colors is fantastic. I don’t mind the branch behind it, but I’ll bet it would really look great without it as well. I guess it’s a matter of truth in advertising. Was the bird displaying while clinging to the perch or was it actually diving off it? If the latter, the perch could go without bothering me.
Excellent capture of the colors and detail in this beautiful bird. Interesting pose. I think the branch adds some context and would keep it. I think the composition works as is.
Wow Glennie, really awesome image of this beauty. Love the spread wings with the head turn like this. Really makes one do a double take. Sharpness held up well even with the crop. I think keeping the stick is fine. A fascinating image.
Glennis - this a truly exceptional! Wonderful pose with a bit of mystery, tack-sharp, amazing colours, and the branch gives context - perfect as is, no tweaking needed.
Glennie: what an excellent capture of this very different pose. I think that the image works well with or without the stick. You might try a slightly tighter crop. Regardless, it’s a wall hanger.
