The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.
Description
This Lady (sex determination based on size-she was big!) showed up in the back yard this afternoon and my wife happened to see her on the barn owl box. By the time I got my camera out and made it outside, she was on this bird box post across the yard (maybe 50-60 feet). She stayed there long enough for 71 frames and flew when I moved to get a different angle. We’ve had a lot of doves and a very large number of Pine Siskins hanging out this winter, so a raptor isn’t a surprise. We’ve seen her flying by at a distance a number of times.
Specific Feedback
I’m curious as to which of the three is most appealing. My wife and I agreed this time which made me wonder how others would react to them.
Technical Details
All images Sony A1, FE 200-600 + 1.4 TC @ 840 mm, hand held, f/10, 1/250, iso 2500. The settings were unintentional. I just grabbed the camera and adjusted the shutter speed for exposure figuring it shouldn’t be too far off. I’m impressed with the image stabilization as over 25% of the images were tack sharp. Noise reduction with DxO PureRaw 4, processed in PS CC. All images cropped to about 1/3 original area. Taken this afternoon at 2 PM under overcast skies.
Critique Template
Use of the template is optional, but it can help spark ideas.
I am drawn more to #2. To me, it suggests that the hawk is on to something other than the photographer. It is very well done, and I am impressed with just how sharp it is, considering 800mm at 1/250th and hand held!!!
I like #1 with the head turn. This series shows how flexible accipiters are and this contributes to their hunting skill in heavy timber. The BG looks a little blue to me and you could warm up the WB to reduce the cyan as my only suggestion. Since you took these on a cloudy day, the BG as is should work for you as presented…Jim
In terms of emotional response, I think #1 since she seems most distracted in that one and it makes me wonder by what. But seriously, these are all appealing and dynamic with that feather floofing and lifted wing. What a terrific opportunity.
Wow! Hard to decide. I like when the subject is looking at the camera (#3) but the look it had in #1 is my choice from all 3 winners. The only thing I would look at would be to clone out that mass on the post. It draws my eye a bit. Super series.
Number 1 is my favorite. I think the placement of the body to the right and the head turned to the left speaks volumes, as clearly the action is happening to the left.
