Common Grackle

[Airedale1]

Taken at a local pond this morning.
http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h33/Airedale1/grackle8.jpg
http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h33/Airedale1/grackle9.jpg

[CarolP]

Both shots are nice but I really like the less traditional pose in the second shot. It shows off the colors in the bird that you don't normally notice. The background colors are also outstanding!

[Anthony J Howe]

Nice shots Paul. Those leaves look nice and crisp. Nice colour on the bird as well.

[Sindri Skulason]

Good shots Paul. Very sharp with beautiful colours and bokeh. Very well done. :-)

[Paul A]

I like them both but the composition of the second make it my favorite.

[thebugster1]

Sun seems to be a bit harsh in the second one. Is it just me?

[alpha788]

Nice exposure on the blacks!

[Reyno]

Very nice.

[dancinec]

I have to go with the second shot, well done Paul.

[RainCrow]

The composition of the second shot makes it my favorite of the two. I have tried getting pics of these. The hardly stop moving long enough for me. I guess I just need to practice more.

Terry

[apatchy]

Very nice shots love the colours.

[clivingston]

Very nice shots. Great exposure in bright sun. I also like the second shot better. I think it is because I can see more of the subject. Is the first a grackle or red-winged blackbird ?

[johnathan]

Very nice.Great lighting and colors. Johnathan

[Airedale1]

Very nice shots. Great exposure in bright sun. I also like the second shot better. I think it is because I can see more of the subject. Is the first a grackle or red-winged blackbird ?

Good eye Chris, the first was a RWB.

[Becky N]

Have to agree, both shots are exception, but; #2 has my vote for many of the same reasons, the radiance from the light, bokah, and not traditional pose.

[Gary Fairhead]

I like the first image Paul for the exposure, wonderful colors in the environmnt , amazing bokeh and nice catchlight in the eye. I like a lot of the same things in the Grackle shot but I do find the light to be a little harsh. I wonder if the burn tool in PS could help here to tone down the brightness. Still a great shot IMO for the composition but my vote goes to the RWB for reasons mentionned.

[ClareH]

Hi Paul,
two beautiful shots, very well exposed and good colors and great poses.
In # 1 I notice a white halo around the bird, is this the contrast between the bird & background or PP (sharping)?
All the Best,
Clare

[Airedale1]

Hi Paul,
two beautiful shots, very well exposed and good colors and great poses.
In # 1 I notice a white halo around the bird, is this the contrast between the bird & background or PP (sharping)?
All the Best,
Clare

Too much USM:o

[Dimitri_V]

awesomw bokeh with splendid colours and sharpness,another good job Paul.