Wood ducks in the shade

Image Critiques Avian Critiques
1

What technical feedback would you like if any? Suggestions on ways to improve this type of image.

What artistic feedback would you like if any?

Overall compositions

Pertinent technical details or techniques:

(If backgrounds have been removed, etc. please be honest with your techniques to help others learn)
Canon 7D MII, Canon 100-400mm F-4.5/5.6 IS II USM @ 400mm
1/320 @ F-5.6 ISO 400, hand held

469A2319V1W
469A2319V1W1728×1152 895 KB

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2

I like the composition, John. The ducks show up quite well in the larger version. They do all look a bit soft as if your focal plane might have been on the willow leaves instead of any of the ducks. You might think about cropping a bit off the left to eliminate that stick coming in-it’s a bit of an eye magnet.

3

I’ve seen a lot of Wood Ducks, but never in a tree (odd, I suppose, given their name), so thanks for sharing this image. I like the composition and setting. Would wish for more of the striking color usually seen in the drake. Might also consider cloning out the lone branch in the dark area on the left.