South Carolina Osprey and a Flounder

[rpearce12]

I found an Osprey that decided to take on a flounder. It isn't the first time I have seen this, but it was a first seeing a fledgling with one. I was able to sit there and watch him for a few minutes before moving on. Critiques welcome.

[jckegley]

All the shots are really nice Richard. Out of the four I like the first the best. I think it has the best background. The first two have the best detail, but the latter two show the environment more. A simple matter of how big the subject is in the frame.

So am I reading your post right... the first two are the adult and the latter two are the fledgling?

[rpearce12]

Originally Posted by jckegley

All the shots are really nice Richard. Out of the four I like the first the best. I think it has the best background. The first two have the best detail, but the latter two show the environment more. A simple matter of how big the subject is in the frame.

So am I reading your post right... the first two are the adult and the latter two are the fledgling?

Thank you, Joe. I like the first one as well. I stopped down the exposure a bit in post and added a little more contrast in this shot. However, I should have had the same work flow for all of them. I also like how you are able to see the flounder in the bird's talons.

[artsnimages]

Neat captures Richard!

For technical stuff my favorite would be number 2 as far as over all exposure and print-ability. Here you have nice shadow shape as well as a good overall exposure. As far as subject, I like the first. I think if you go back to the RAW you could obtain some decent shape in the shadows.

Jim

[Steve_E]

Nice shootin' Richard. Always cool to see these birds on their feet instead of looking at their bellies. #2 is my pick too, has the best exposure and the attitude clinches it.

[Squatty]

Yea I would have to agree with Steve and Jim with #2 being your winner here. You are shooting some great shots Richard. Post more and don't be a stranger.

[hisloveisunfailing]

Oh, man! Those angry eyes and talons are freaking me out! I would hate to get on his bad side. Is he shrieking at you? That second one is my favorite too. Nothing like a good photo of a pissed osprey to get me goin' in the morning!

[dddenton]

Great work Richard - really nice series. Gonna say I agree about the second one - it's super.

[rpearce12]

Second one it is haha! I've hardly had a chance to get out and shoot this summer. Hell I barely have time to get online as you can see. I think I've been out twice this summer. It's killing me. I'm taking a class this summer to get ahead. Combine that with work and trying to see some old friends and there's hardly a chance to shoot. I've got the next week off before I head back up to school, so we'll see what I can do!

Heading to Hendersonville tomorrow. Does anyone know of any spots up there to shoot some waterfowl/ANYTHING?

Thanks,
Richard