First bird pic

It was windy (35 mph) and cold...but by golly I got my first bird picture. CC always welcome!

*sorry I deleted the pics off flickr that I did not want on there and it took them off here. Was not thinking. I will add again when I get home. Sorry

IMAGE LINK: https://flic.kr/p/qpBw​nB

Very nice for your first bird. Beware...it's very addicting! I bet you could make this even better by increasing the contrast a little bit.

Its a beauty and as Sandy suggests a little contrast wouldn't hurt. Well done on your first Jessi.

I just got this lens last week and already want one with more reach..eek ...

I will try and up the contrast even more then I did and repost...thanks!

Thanks Dan!

Thanks Sandy, I posted the new pic and I do like it better.

Congrats on your first bird image Jessi....it's a real beauty!
As has been said, it quickly becomes addictive and by your "I already need more reach" statement I think you're already hooked.
You did a fine job on this little Chickadee with nicely crisp focus. Along with the increased contrast you've already applied I might suggest decreasing the exposure around .5-1.0 stops if you can to bring the whites back a little. Easy to see you're off to a great start!

Thank you so much Steve and yes I think i am addicted already ha.

Ok I will mess mess with the exposure and repost.

-.24

IMAGE LINK: https://flic.kr/p/qpBw​nB

I think it's an improvement, at least on my monitor Jessi.
The difference I see is a reduced shine on the black cap and more pleasing grays on the upper wing/shoulder area. I was kind of hoping it would tone down the branches in front of the bird making them less distracting , but that and bringing the whites back may not be possible. We'll just call it a high key Chickadee!

As a suggestion to improve on these results, check your camera settings and if possible set the exposure to underexpose by 1/3-2/3 stops. This will help prevent what people refer to as "blowing out the whites".

Ok I will pay attention to that and make sure I lower it on the camera. thank you so much for taking the time to help me!

The last one is much better. I've done a lot of practice with my 7D and 400/5.6 since this past summer figuring things out. I think you're going to enjoy shooting birds.

Very nice for your first bird shot Jessi! I am a REAL newbie to photography (16 months), and even more of a rookie at bird photography. You will find that the members of this forum are incredibly helpful and encouraging in their comments and feedback. I am finding that birding and bird photography is a passion that goes well beyond just taking pictures of something. I have learned a lot in the short time I have been here. I think you will enjoy it! I look forward to your future contributions!

Thank you! One time out shooting birds and I am already hooked

Thanks Mark! I got my camera back in May/June, so I am also a rookie. I look forward to hanging out here and seeing everyone's work.