Black-Necked Stilt

Moss Landing, Ca
7D2, 500/F4+1.4, F10, 1/2500, ISO 800, -0.33 EC, tripod.
Thanks for any comments or suggestions, Dave

You may only download this image to demonstrate post-processing techniques.

Excellent detail in the Stilt and beautiful light, Dave. It would take a bit of work, but I’d be sorely tempted to clean up the bottom of the frame quite a bit.

Beautiful morning light with a pleasing pose and bonus open beak. It looks as if it is smiling. I like it.

Fine stilt pose, David, and I like your exposure and choice of f/10 to keep a more generous DOF. Sure, having more pristine surroundings might be nice, but I know all too well this is their environment. If mine I might only consider a little clean up just under the reflection. If this was uncropped your framing was excellent.

I agree on a very light hand on the cleanup. It made me smile because this type of environment is always where I find them and I struggle to get a shot in a clear area. Nice light and comp.

It is a nice Stilt image. Clean up would not be hard at all. I would do it.

Gorgeous light and bird. The raised foot, reflection, and open beak are all great. I’d personally do a big cleanup on the water. Wouldn’t take much time at all.