Stare Down

Image Critiques Avian Critiques
1

20250630_063202_Z819388.jpg
20250630_063202_Z819388.jpg1691×2048 1.26 MB

Critique Style Requested: Standard

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

Description

American Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus)

This is the female of the pair that are permanent residents at my favorite local wetlands. They’re very acclimated to people walking the trails and photographing them. She stared down at me for several minutes before I moved on. I like how her head is framed by leaves. Plus, what a stare!

Specific Feedback

Any comments appreciated.

Technical Details

Nikon Z8, 800mm, 1/800 Sec @ f/6.3, ISO 3200

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2 Likes
2

The perfect head turn for the angle you had to shoot from, David. Great eye contact. Makes me feel like I’m about to be lunch.

3

David

Is this Crystal Springs? I’ve been there a few times and the shooting is excellent. I’ve seen some pretty bald eagles hanging out there. It’s also great for shooting ducks. I agree with Dennis that this image is effective.

4

Hi David, this is Fernhill Wetlands in Forest Grove, Oregon. It’s managed by the local water treatment company, Clear Water Services. It’s about the only place I go anymore, about 20 minutes from home. There are great walking paths, all pretty even level-wise. I was there on Thursday and photographed roughly 40 migrating white pelicans, a recently fledged Osprey, a young Cooper’s hawk, and a couple of Green Herons passing through. If you’re ever down this way and want to check it out, let me know. I’d be happy to join up.

Fernhill Wetlands

Cheers,
David

5

@Dennis_Plank and @David_Schoen thanks for the nice comments. I really appreciate them.

Cheers,
David

6

Hi David, wonderful to get him staring down like this. Really engages with the viewer. I think you handled the bird in shade quite well with fine details and exposure.

7

Allen, thanks for the comments. I appreciate them.

9

Thanks for the reply

David Schoen

1 Like
10

Hi David, Great pose with the eagle looking right at the viewer. A good lesson on how to shoot a bird from below. Detail looks great and the whites came out well. Had similar thoughts to Sandy’s on the background highlights. Well done.

11

@Sandy_Richards-Brown and @Allen_Brooks thanks for the nice comments and suggestions. I will take a look at filling in the bright areas.

Cheers,
David