Morning Takeoff - Updated

Image Critiques
1

Removed distracting white spots:

20250814_070411_Z818547
20250814_070411_Z8185472048×1325 860 KB

Original:

20250814_070411_Z818547.jpg
20250814_070411_Z818547.jpg2048×1325 860 KB

Critique Style Requested: Standard

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

Description

American White Pelican (Pelecanus erythrorhynchos)

The Pelicans had an overnight layover last Wednesday night. They usually make stops here during the spring and fall migrations. I came upon them Thursday morning, feeding and getting ready to take off again.

This my favorite shot of the morning with the wing tip dragging in the water and the backlight on the wings. I also like the other birds in the oof distance.

Specific Feedback

Any comments appreciated.

Technical Details

Nikon Z 8, 800mm, 1/2000 sec @ f/6.3, ISO 2800

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2 Likes
2

This is really nice, David. Great light on the wing and the wing in the water with that slight splash adds a lot. I’d be tempted to clone out the white spot in the RUC and the bright spot in front of the pelican’s bill. The OBA has a monthly photo contest and I think this would be a great entry. You don’t need to be a member to enter or vote.

3

Wonderful light and water touch on the wings! I don’t think I’ve ever seen one with a little splash like that. Ditto the white spots mentioned by @Allen_Brooks.

4

@Allen_Brooks and @Diane_Miller thank you for the comments and suggestions. I have posted an update above.

Thanks for the thought about the OBA, Allen. I will look into submitting.

Cheers,
David

5

What a nice catch David. Love the water-dipping wings and the in flight pose is great. Nice exposure and sharpness. Nicely composed. Rework looks really good. Well done.

6

The repost looks very good, David. Amazing what cleaning up a few errant bright blobs can do to an image.

7

@Allen_Sparks and @Dennis_Plank thanks for the comments. It sure was a lot of fun. I went back this morning and there were over 60 Pelicans and about as many Great Egrets all feeding, fighting, and flying. What a party.