Ringneck . . .

[RJSorensen]

This fellow was sneaking through the yard out back, he was too slow however to escape the all powerful 20D/100-400 combo. I think they are a very pretty bird and I am glad they are increasing in numbers around here.

[cocodel1st]

After looking at your continous postings of wildlife, I have to say that you are a very active photographer. Always taking & possting new images. They are all very,very good. Many of your images look ready for National Wildlife Magazines. You are obviously enjoying your 100-400. Are you planning to clean up the little disturbing sticks in the background of this image? Oh and, do you have a web gallery? I think lots of people would really enjoy seeing your images together. I know I sure do.

[Reigh Higgins]

Nice shot!

[robertwgross]

We should thank our Chinese immigrant friends who brought the birds over in 1880.

About ten miles from me there is one nice male pheasant who struts around with his harem of four hens. However, there is no way to get them all in the same photo. Heaven knows I've tried.

---Bob Gross---

[RJSorensen]

Conny . . . I suppose I like to shoot more than 'edit' so my photos tend to be a bit 'raw' that way. Do you suppose I should spend more time on them to be 'postable?' I can see your suggestion and yes that would improve the image. I guess I need an editor or something. The new lens lets me shoot things I have looked at everyday but not been able to 'reach' with the lens and or equipment I previously had. Digital has got me back in the 'hobby' and is of great enjoyment to me. I 'pack' my camera and lens of the day with me on my travels and keep same 'ready' on the table or near me. This has lent itself to being able to capture more and perhaps better shots. I must confess that I am overrun with much of the wildlife I share . . . and so other than to share it with those here, has little value other than to those here whom enjoy it, and me taking them. I won't push a moose out of his 'hide' for a photo, there are just too many other times to 'take' them. So often they are, my shots, a little rough on the edges and such, because I won't force a pose. My reward is that at times I get some shots that are just too good to be real. I look at them and wonder who took them. The credit for that goes to the camera . . . anyone could shoot them given the gear and the place. That I watch for fox and birds and such is just from living out here.

As to a website or such, I don't know. I had not thought of it. I am a little slow in the computer 'stuff.' Perhaps I could learn how and or ask one of the kids to assist with such. But I laugh, that with all of the wonderful talent here that anyone would spent their valued free-time going through a gallery of someone from the sticks . . . I do look at some of these and I do not hold a candle to them.

Thank you for your kind words Conny RH & Bob, yes I am glad they brought some color into the west, lol. But they are native now . . . in their own special way.

[thomascanty]

I like this one. Good capture!

[Maz]

That is real nice. Great photo.
Maz
http://www.homesteadsforsale.com

[cocodel1st]

RJ this photo is wonderful. The colors are great and in all your shots you are taking a good angle at your photo subject. Don't cut yourself short. You really have some great images and the camera and lens are only a part to the equation. Back to my suggestion it was merely to maybe use the cloning tool in Photoshop or Photoshop Elements (came with the 20D and works just fine for subtle changes) Perhaps on a real dreary day you'll just get on the pc....Your images are good in color rendition and they are great without much "touch up" anyway so don't apologize. And do keep it up, because I love seeing wildlife imagery.

[RJSorensen]

Thanks . . . I learned something very important here. I see the animal and not the background. I suppose I shoot photos like I once hunted . . . only seeing the animals, blocking out the background to find that which I was seeking. How very interesting . . . yes, now with my eyes opened a different way, I can see the distraction. But I must confide I could not prior to just today.

This is one of the wonders of the net. To teach and train and share thoughts across thousands of miles. I am glad you enjoy those lovely creatures within my 'range' for I think them a wonderful treasure. The Canon 20D does an excellent job, I have to say that as well. Quick and sharp, to the point given enough light and a chance.

My thanks . . .

[robertwgross]

The twigs in front of the bird are fine. The twigs behind the bird are distracting.

I'll bet that bird is good to eat.

---Bob Gross---

[ayotnoms]

I like this picture very much.

You're lucky to have so many photo opportunities in your own backyard, so to speak. Yes, that is little envy speaking. 8-)

[sparker1]

Great shot of a beautiful bird, Rod. I appreciate both points of view on this discussion. Certainly I admire the photos that are all clean and uncluttered, whether by luck, patience or PS. On the other hand, I also greatly admire the more realistic look that your photos always have. I guess my point is: Learn to edit if you want to, but don't feel you have to do so for us on the forum to enjoy your work. We enjoy it very much as it is.

[RJSorensen]

Well my son came home from school and he agreed under some pressure to assist with the editing . . . so try this. I like that I got my moneys worth today. A suggestion that helped, how about that, a teaching, learning, growing thing. It does not get any better than this.

Anyway give this new improved shot a try. Oh, and yes I am lucky to live in such a beautiful place.

[sparker1]

Excellent. Last year, I saw hundreds of ringnecks as we traveled through ND and MT. However, only one photo, and it's not great. Those suckers are fast in the summer, hope they are slower on snow. At least there is less stuff to hide in.

[MarkoPolo]

RJ--Where is Tin Cup Wyoming? I live in Greeley CO and wonder where you are located? Are you near Jackson Hole? At any rate, you take great photos! Keep it up. Mark

[Geeeyejo]

Awesome shot, thats the beauty of Digital photography - the ease of editing to take a great image and bring it to the next level!

[TammieO]

He's a beauty and you did him justice!

[pcasciola]

Another great shot. I am amazed at the variety of wildlife shots you are able to get, too. Being a New Jersey boy, I have to go to the zoo to see that many different species.

Keep them coming.

[Mills]

Another great shot. I do like the cleaned up version better. More please.

[RJSorensen]

Next time I see ths ringneck scooting through the back yard I'll tell him that he has found favor with you kind folks . . . Tin Cup, Wyoming is west and south of Freedom, Wyoming, near the Idaho state line, more or less, in Lincoln County.

[cocodel1st]

Fantastic. Keep on posting. I am looking forward to the next pictures.

[RJSorensen]

Conny . . . you helped me 'see' yesterday a little better. My thanks to you for taking the time to 'show' me how to 'see' with eyes on things besides the critter. TY . . .

[pdrow]

Your wildlife shots are great. I spend a couple of weeks each summer in Sheridan WY. I have taken some cool landscapes, but haven't experienced the wildlife like you see it. I really would like to visit WY some winter. We don't get much snow in Texas and the snow looks great as background in your shots.