The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.
Description
From the hide, it was also possible to follow the kingfisher going for the bait. Success rate was far from 100%. Especially since this particular bird was a yearling.
Of course, the edge of the aquarium with the bait ruins the picture. In the second picture I left it out. For the first of the 2 pictures, I overlay it with a wave I found in another picture. I find this an acceptable way to improve the image. But please disagree if this is a bridge too far for you.
Specific Feedback
My main question is included above. All other aspects can be discussed, including sharpness and noise f.i.
Technical Details
Canon EOS R6 with RF 200-800mm @ 258mm
f/6.3
1/3200
ISO 20000
For both pictures
Critique Template
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Hi Xavier
Ok, it looks like you’re in for the photograph of the week for two consecutive weeks.
The second photograph of the Kingfisher is amazing.
I made the above statement before reading your description of the two photographs. Since you clearly state the Kingfisher was photographed in a controlled environment, adding the wave is acceptable. Had the first shot been in nature (the great outdoors) I would have found this overlay unacceptable.
Peter
Ps Overlay or not both Kingfisher photographs are amazing.
These are awesome, Xavier. I didn’t know they were using aquariums for this now, though there’s a well-known bird photographer that had a long description of his trials and tribulations getting this kind of shots of our Belted Kingfisher and he ended up using an aquarium for the underwater shots at least. I don’t have any problem with your editing as long as it’s disclosed. In my opinion, even the second image, leaving it out is fine, though I would be sure to disclose on any of these that it was done with a baited aquarium and from a blind.
I can make out the edge of the aquarium in the first, but I don’t find it a serious issue. To my mind, this isn’t any different that photographing songbirds attracted to bird feeders.
Xavier: Both of these are marvelous but the second is a jaw dropper. I’m not a birder so I won’t comment on the artistic decisions you’ve made but I see no objection, especially when you plainly state how you made the final image. I am curious how big the aquarium is that you use and what is the bait. Sounds like a fascinating endeavor. >=))>
Wonderful shots Xavier. Love seeing kingfishers in action. Love the water and the uprising poses of the bird. Thank you for stating the techniques used (aquarium) and the composite in the first shot - all that is fine when disclosed IMO. Well done.
The kingfisher images are indeed lovely showing the beauty and the skill of the bird. Gorgeous background as well.
However, I, personally disagree with the ethics of the technique. “Tanking” raises concerns about the welfare of the bird as it dives into an aquarium at 40 klm/hour, risking injury to beak and wings on the floor and edges of the tank. Spectacular results for sure, but at what cost.
Dear Glenys,
I can understand your concern, but I reassure you that this aquarium is deep enough. I have seen a number of dives by mature and young kingfishers and they barely just reach the bottom of the tank. Thank you for writing and for saying your mind. Best wishes. Xavier
