Northern Flicker

Critique Style Requested: Standard

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

Description

A rare occasion when a flicker gave me a decent look and I like the fall colors in the background.

Specific Feedback

Any thoughts appreciated.

Technical Details

Canon R5; 100-500 at 500 mm; 1/1000 at f7.1, ISO 3200


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2 Likes

I am always on the lookout for one of these guys and most of the time when one does show up it bolts before I can get the crosshairs on him. I pretty much have to be inlace, and be very still to have any chance of one showing up. Great capture of his shy guy. Extra points for the male mustache.

1 Like

Wow Allen, fine catch with terrific details on the bird and a great look. These guys are so photogenic. I think you handled the lighting well but I’m wondering if the tree on the left can be as muted as the leaves on the right. Love seeing the wonderful patterns on this species. Nice capture.

1 Like

Hi Allen
Really nice framing, with outstanding color and feather detail.
Peter

1 Like

Hi Allen, I took a stab at making the changes I suggested one to see if it would make any difference and also just to see if I could do it. I used Nik Collection 7 Viveza to select and reduce the brightness of the tree on the left. I then used Photoshop to select the bird and perch to brighten a bit. See below:

Allen, I think brightening the bird and perch improves the image. I’m ambivalent about the tree, maybe a bit brighter. The photo was taken in late afternoon sun with the flicker facing the sun and I kind of like the brightness in the foliage.

1 Like

Beautiful detail in the flicker, Allen. I see where the other Allen is coming from about shifting the brightness to the flicker, but I personally like the bit of visual tension created by the competition between the bright, soft background and the darker, but incredibly sharp subject.

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Flickers are so pretty. Nice capture with great detail. Would maybe darken the background or just the yellow areas a touch.

1 Like

Very nice color combo here, and for me it seems like a unique opportunity to get this species amid fall colors.

I do appreciate Allen S’s rework of the bird, which helps it pop against that darker part of the background, though I prefer your foliage in the original. I think this is definitely a scene where—given time (and who knows if there was any)—I’d have wanted to reposition a bit to try and land a cleaner background, or at least get the tail away from that foreground branch.

1 Like