Juvenile Little Blue Heron

Image Critiques Avian Critiques
1

DSC_9541-2-copy
DSC_9541-2-copy1600×1111 988 KB

This seemed a timid little guy. I caught him first thing, went on around the loop road at the Savannah NWR and returned. It was still there. I particularly liked this image, with the Juvie taking a tentative step down to its little hidden bower. After 8 or 10 more images, It took off with a raucous raspberry, heading away and gone. So much for timidity!

I realize this is very busy, with lots of shadows, but I think it sets the mood for the moment the bird stayed there.

What technical feedback would you like if any?

Anything that might help. Should I darken or blur the BG?

What artistic feedback would you like if any?

None. I think mood is appropriately set.

Any pertinent technical details:

Camera Info: Nikon D500, Braced in SUV window
Lens: VR 300mm f/4E - 1.4x TC
Focal Length: 420mm
Focus Mode: AF-C
AF-Area Mode: Dynamic, 25 points
VR: ON
Aperture: f/6.3
Shutter Speed: 1/8000s
Exposure Mode: Aperture Priority
Exposure Comp.: 0EV
Metering: Spot
ISO Sensitivity: ISO 800
88% of full frame
PP in LR/PS CC 2018, Topaz Studio, Camera Raw filter, TK sharpen for web @ 40%

Allow other members to download your photo to demonstrate processing examples only?

Only with permission

2

Hi Phil
You are right about the shot being a little busy, but I have found you can never get birds to move to a better spot just because you want to photograph them. Nice work.
Peter

3

I think this is a nice habitat shot and, so, would leave the background as is. Nice pose and good detail.

4

I agree this is a wonderful habitat shot. Nice job on the exposure and detail. I wouldn’t change anything.

5

I love the mood of this image, Phil. The background looks absolutely fine to me as-is. If I were to do anything at all to this image, it might be to try adding just a touch more light to the Heron’s face, but that’s a real fine judgment call.