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Image Critiques Avian Critiques
1

SRB07410 copy 5XNB copy.jpg
SRB07410 copy 5XNB copy.jpg1654×2222 1.03 MB

Critique Style Requested: Standard

The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.

Description

African Spotted Eagle-Owl
The African spotted eagle owl is the most common species of eagle owl in southern Africa. We saw several on our night drives, but mostly flying.
This one was kind enough to stay on his eye-level perch, despite being caught in our vehicle headlights

Specific Feedback

all comments welcome

Technical Details

Sony A1
200-600 mm @600

Software: Adobe Photoshop 25.9 (Windows) + DxO PureRaw
Exposure Time: 1/2000 sec
F Number: f/6.3
ISO Speed Ratings: ISO 640
Exposure Program: Manual
Metering Mode: Spot
Exposure Bias: 0 EV
I very rarely flash any critter, but this one was already flashed with the headlights, so I added a bit of flash

Critique Template

Use of the template is optional, but it can help spark ideas.

  • Vision and Purpose:
  • Conceptual:
  • Emotional Impact and Mood:
  • Composition:
  • Balance and Visual Weight:
  • Depth and Dimension:
  • Color:
  • Lighting:
  • Processing:
  • Technical:
2

I don’t know whether it was the headlights or the bit of additional flash, but this does have that distinctive “flashed” look, Sandy, though it’s a very cool bird and perch. I think I’d be tempted to reduce the exposure and increase contrast a bit in the bird and perch to try to give it a better balance with the stark black background. Just my taste on that one. They must have one heck of a light on that vehicle if you could shoot at 1/2000th.

I took the liberty of playing with it a bit. Perhaps something like this (you could do better with the raw file of course).

SRB07410 copy 5XNB copy 2
SRB07410 copy 5XNB copy 21654×2222 948 KB

3

Sandy,

Perfect title given the expression in that owl’s face. I can see what Dennis is talking about, but I would not drop the luminosity that much, as I think the glow of the eyes is what makes this photo work so well. If you do decide to lower the luminosity, then mask off the eyes to keep them glowing bright.

4

Nice catch Sandy - must have been great to see in the field. Agree with tweaking this one to reduce the flashed look. Composition looks very good.

5

Sandy
Really nice shot under difficult conditions. I would agree that the contrast with flash is a little bit high but toning down a little would help. Excellent.
Larry Moskovitz

6

I would agree with what Youssef said. Killer cool photo! What a neat opportunity.