Inflight Ferruginous

There’s an area not far from where I live that I tend be able to spot, and shoot Ferruginous Hawks this time of the year. I think they are my favorite of the hawks here. I just wish they were here all year!

Specific Feedback Requested

What about the cropping?

Technical Details

Is this a composite: No
D500, Nikon 200-500 lens, Nikon 1.4 TC, handheld, 1/2500th, f 8.0, 420mm, ISO 630, AI Clear, cropped to 1440 x 1127

1 Like

What a terrific catch - the way the wings are folded says speed to me - which makes this even more special. I think the crop ratio suits the photo. With the blue bird sky it stands out and needs to be cropped quite a bit to show of the lines and textures. That said I think you could go in more and even increase the clarity/texture in the bird itself. Maybe contour the underside with some dodging and burning. I don’t believe I’ve ever seen this type of hawk, so thanks for sharing it!

Nice detail and wing position, Dave. The exposure also looks good.

Cropping looks great Dave. Also very sharp on the beak and eye. Nice!

Wonderful!! Perfect sky color and dynamic pose, with wonderful detail!!