Eagles - which image is stronger?

#1 for me too. I do not care for the clipped wing in number 2, but the panning on the second is nice to show the motion.

For focus I used the new "expanded focus zone" and tracking on Case 2. The Canon Learning Center has a really good article on focusing options on the 7D Mk II. Google it as it's worth the read!

Thanks for all of the feedback. I also agree with the consensus. Interestingly, facebook stilted the other way on feedback which is why I posted.

My guess on this logic: photographers focus on technical like no clipped wings and moment of action. General public looks more for drama and clipped wing image is practically coming out of the frame. Btw, both images have minimal crop.

Both images are strong images; but, I prefer number 1 as it holds a little more drama and the reflection in the water adds some texture to it.

Pic #1, tells a great story. Outstanding pics; just got my own Canon 7D Mark II and can only hope to get as great a pic anytime soon.

Number 1 also.

I'm going with #1 also. #2 is no slouch! But the action portrayed in #1 does it for me.

Super inflight capture.

Great looking first image. That is the only one I can see.

Although both are very good images, #1 would rate as exceptional in my book.

....forgot to add to my first comment: You seem to be a bit heavy handed with the 'clarity'. Maybe to your taste, just not mine.

#1 for sure

I have to agree with the consensus as well, #1. I think the smoother water as an object adds both drama and contrast, as opposed to the water as a background blurred by motion. Also, it is an image familiar to what we believe about eagles, eagles hunt, and this one seems do be doing just that. Both awesome shots, and super sharp!

Well Done on both, the clipped wings don't bother me for shot #2, it says what it wants to say.

Thanks for sharing,
Steve

Didereaux, Thanks for the comment. Actually, I don't use the 'clarity' function as I primarily process in Photoshop. I see your point though. I think this is from my adjusting curves and levels as this was shot in flat, overcast light and at ISO 1600, which I feel does funky things to details also.

#1 for me because the entire bird is in view, the action that is captured and it clearly shows the feathers bending which is showing the speed and force on the wing feathers. The water being more in focus, looks to have a strong current, liking that too. Now if I had captured image number 2 myself, well I would still be very thankful.