Great Blue Heron incoming

Critique Style Requested: Standard

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

Description

Thought I’d take a break from posting Louisiana photos and show this one that I took at my neighborhood lake back in April.

Specific Feedback

Hoping the reflection and symmetry helps to make this an intriguing image.

Technical Details

Canon R7, 400mm f4 DO IS II, 1.4x extender III
ISO 640, f7.1, 1/2500s, hand held


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5 Likes

Very much so. Perfect timing with the wing position almost touching the water. The colors in the water also add to the interest of the image. Well done.

For sure, Allen, that reflection really helps. What an excellent shot. I love seeing birds face-on, so that is pleasing to me as well. Well done.

As an aspiring BIF photographer, this is a really difficult shot. Well done! The symmetry , position of the wings just above the water, and the bird is headed dead on makes the picture really special. As for the technicals of the shot they are spot on. I don’t know how long you have to wait for such opportunities. Hours, days, weeks or years! If you are into bagging blue heron photos I would try adding shots in less harsh light. The shadows beneath the beak on the chest, reminds me of butterfly lighting’ portraiture. Also, softer light would lower the stark almost black surroundings in comparison to the heron. At first blush the image was intriguing , but with little context as the narrow profile of the heron was just a sliver in a dark field. took me a while to identify it as a blue heron. On the other hand, this image is dramatic and impactful . Is has aesthetic integrity. Hope this helps.

Intriguing is a good word for this Allen. The oval shape and how close the GBH is to the deep rich greens of the water have a lot of impact.

Allen, this image is BRILLIANT! The perfect symmetry and reflection of the heron in flight create a captivating mirror effect on the calm water surface.

The technical composition is spot on. The heron is perfectly centered, with its wingspan beautifully filling the frame. Capturing the bird head-on adds a dramatic touch, drawing the viewer’s eye directly to its intense focus and grace in flight. The visual balance is excellent, with the dark water and subtle reflections enhancing the serene mood.

The stillness of the water and the dynamic flight of the heron tell a compelling story of nature’s quiet power. The rich greens and blacks in the color palette intensify the sense of tranquility and focus.

It’s a fine shot. I don’t see a lot of birds photographed from this point of view and you’ve done it well.

Fantastic!! Perfect symmetry with a BG that suggests the environment beautifully without distracting from the bird.

Sorry I didn’t get to this one sooner, Allen. I love thecomposition and that wing position fits it perfectly. A fine image.