Pine Siskin Irruption

Image Critiques Avian Critiques
1

-20250103-_A1_0334-untitled-Edit.jpg
-20250103-_A1_0334-untitled-Edit.jpg2048×1365 1.59 MB

Critique Style Requested: Standard

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

Description

We are having an irruption of Pine Siskins this winter. The 101 Siskins and one lonely House Finch in this image represent a small portion of the Siskins coming to our feeders this year. Hopefully they won’t get hit by bird flu. We haven’t been seeing as many other species, I suspect because they’re intimidated by the mobs of this one species.
This was the first halfway decent image I got of the mob, but it’s supposed to dry out next week and I should be able to get some better angles.

Specific Feedback

I need to use a wider angle lens on these and probably set it up with a remote trigger since approaching too closely does cause them to fly up and divide themselves amongst other perching areas, usually among the Douglas firs where they don’t show well.

Technical Details

Sony A1, FE 200-600 + 1.4 TC @ 280 mm, handheld, f/9, 1/250, iso 20000 (yes, that’s four zeros). Minimal processing in PS and a bit of dehaze in LR. Taken at 8:46 this morning (it was raining and still pretty dark).

Critique Template

Use of the template is optional, but it can help spark ideas.

  • Vision and Purpose:
  • Conceptual:
  • Emotional Impact and Mood:
  • Composition:
  • Balance and Visual Weight:
  • Depth and Dimension:
  • Color:
  • Lighting:
  • Processing:
  • Technical:
1 Like
2

Very cool. What a treat to see so many. That lone finch really stands out and provides a sense of symmetry to the image.

3

Wow, how cool! They do look damp. Hopefully, you can get another group photo!

4

Hi Dennis, nice shot that holds my attention as I look at the birds in a group as well as individuals. Nicley composed with the bird on top holding apex position.