The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.
Description
Hi everyone! I just returned from a trip to Sanibel Island in southwest Florida. I was pleased to find this skimmer skimming on our last day there. Taken at the Bailey Tract, Ding Darling NWR.
I was surprised how fast these guys skim - they really motor! Challenge to keep up with panning with the R7. Fortunately, he/she skimmed for about a half hour in this shallow pond giving many opportunities.
Specific Feedback
Any thoughts on composition?
The third image was taken pretty early in the session so is in a little warmer light.
I cropped the last image to include the water trail the bird makes as it skims.
Technical Details
Canon R7, 200-800mm, handheld
ISO 1600, f9, 1/4000s or 1/5000s
Processed in DXO PureRaw 4 and Photoshop.
Critique Template
Use of the template is optional, but it can help spark ideas.
Glad to see you back, Allen, and a great collection of skimmer images. My favorite of the three side-on images is the third. That still water just seems to give it some extra pop and makes the trail stand out a bit better. The head-n image is just plain awesome.
Great set of images capturing what the skimmer is known for, Allen. I liked seeing the similar poses in the first three, but against the different backdrops. The last image is outstanding especially with the wake in the back. Great job getting the skimmer in focus and sharp in nice light.
All well done. Of the first three I like the second for the color of the water. The head on shot is fantastic and unique-can’t recall seeing something like this before.
Allan - an excellent series! All the skimmers are cool, but the last one with the head-on position and great reflection.
How was Sanibel? I’ve gone there every couple of years in the last 20 years, and found it sadly declining in the number of birds every time. Then, the recent hurricane…
These are great and I know how hard it is to shoot these birds from recent experience. The last photo is outstanding. I also love the third one with the flat water and the expression on its face…
Hi Sandy, thanks for the comment. The island is still rebuilding from the hurricane. There were enough restaurants, etc open to satisfy us.
I find the birds to be hit or miss at Ding Darling these days. Some days good, some days not.
