The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.
Description
Seems like there was a lot of owl fun going on in the northern states this winter. A lot of folks were flocking to Minnesota for the irruption happening there, while in Yellowstone, there was a noticeable uptick in pygmy-owl activity in December and January. I was fortunate to make a couple trips out to the park and see several of these diminutive predators. This one was photographed during my family trip over the holidays.
I opted for the wider crop here due to the contour of the background trees, and I suppose it also helps convey that this is a smaller animal. There’s a very subtle collection of snow on its head as well… I’ve uploaded a larger-than-normal image to help show off those details.
Technical Details
Canon R5
Canon 600mm + 1.4x
ISO 2000
1/1600th
f/5.6
Critique Template
Use of the template is optional, but it can help spark ideas.
Hi Max, terrific catch of this tiny owl - love that head on look at us. Also love seeing the snow against that faint tree BG. This composition works for me but I could see another version coming in some from the left that I think would still maintain the “small bird in space” feel. Either way, wonderful capture!
Max, while the minimalist approach is through the roof …a look at the larger versions tells the story of the background
Great thought on the comp…very well done
I like the composition, Max. The background is awesome and that little rim of snow on the owl’s head is great. You might be able to bring out the falling snow a bit more. I’ve had luck with snow and rain by just brushing the darker background areas and bringing up the highlights (sometimes having to lower shadows just a trifle). I think the snow fall helps make the image special, so accenting it would build on that.
