Belted Kingfisher series

Image Critiques
1

Belted Kingfisher series
Belted Kingfisher series1600×1200 1.13 MB

Additional image 1
Additional image 11799×1200 1.35 MB

Additional image 2
Additional image 21600×1200 1.2 MB

Additional image 3
Additional image 31600×1200 1.15 MB

Critique Style: Standard

The photographer is looking for thoughtful feedback on the image as a whole, especially around the areas noted below.

Feedback Focus: Artistic + Technical

About This Image

These images were taken last Thursday as I returned once again to the state park pond. This kingfisher came fairly close and then took a dive. He came up with a fish and then turned to head to his favorite perch.

Feedback Requested

I’ve been wanting a shot like this for quite some time of a kingfisher rising out of the water with a fish in the mouth so I’m pretty happy to get this series. I think the separation of the bird versus water would be better if the wind hadn’t kicked up some waves that morning. I was shooting at 30 frames per second and got these shots before the bird fully turned away from me.
I’m wondering about the overall effectiveness of these images given the angle of the bird and the separation from the water. I’m pretty pleased but still see areas for a better shot. My favorite is the second shot with the sweeping wings out front.
Any thoughts appreciated.

Technical Details

Camera: Canon EOS R7
Lens: RF200-800mm F6.3-9 IS USM
Focal length: 800mm
Shutter speed: 1/6400s
Aperture: f/10
ISO: 1600
monopod

Processed in DXO Pure Raw 4 and Photoshop.

2

HI Allen
Some day I will get to photograph a Kingfisher in action. Nice series, all the photographs are sharp and the action is an added bonus.
Peter

3

I like every image. Great job in shooting and processing. Thanks for posting

4

A great series of shots of this Kingfisher and his catch, Allen. I love every one of them.

5

The first wins the “degree-of-difficulty” award, but I agree that the second is a sounder image. I don’t know if it’s possible where you’re shooting but a bit lower angle might do the trick in subduing the background.

6

Allen, a really great series of photos. I have always struggled to get good Kingfisher shots so I appreciate how amazing these are. I also like the second one the best, like the wing position and water action. No real thoughts on improvement. Very nice photos.