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[Dean_Salman]

Critique Style Requested: Standard

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

Description

I was at Newport Beach CA watching the pelicans diving into the water. I spent a few hours photographing them, so never know what I will capture since shooting is fast. After watching them, I notice that they area lifting the mouth and shaking the head, maybe getting sea water out, and then swallow. This photo was a surprise to see. There might be a second fish in his mouth, hard to tell.

Specific Feedback

I am trying to control the harsh lighting, which is why I posted a photo before processing. I wish the birds angle was better. Suggestions welcome and on crop too

Technical Details

Canon R5 ii RF 200-800mm at 800mm f/9 (wide open) 1/2500 ISO 1600. I use the AUTO iso within a range from 100-6400 because I am in Manual mode. HH off the Pier.

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Critique Template

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Vision and Purpose:
Conceptual:
Emotional Impact and Mood:
Composition:
Balance and Visual Weight:
Depth and Dimension:
Color:
Lighting:
Processing:
Technical:

[Allen_Brooks]

Neat shot, Dean, getting the fish going into the pouch. Can’t recall ever seen a shot like this before. I like the cropped/processed version.

[Peter_Morrissey (Peter J. Morrissey)]

HI Dean
You did a good job on correcting lighting and color balance.
Peter

[Dennis_Plank]

I like the processing you used, Dean. It tamed the bright areas and really brought out the color. While it would be nice if the pelican were parallel with you or even facing you, the action here makes up for a lot.

[Allen_Sparks]

Nice action, processing, and cropping. Tough angle but still a fine image.