SuperflyTNT Loc: Manassas VA

Yes, eye focus is a difference maker. As great as the group focus on the D500 is it’s generally gonna focus on the closest part. Especially in a case like this with one wing closer and the other farther away.

MJPerini

PS Mr Wells caught a perfect 'pose' of the eagle in light that was very favorable. Don't underestimate the importance of that. Every bit of Gesture in that picture works.
Having said that , to my eye the white background makes it look unnatural and over processed, but that is a matter of preference.
Because the image appears to be masked and stripped out of the natural environment, the level of processing is not easy to determine. It is also possible that he exposed to let the sky go white, but I suspect that the eagles head would have also gone white if that were the case.
Then there is the lens, superTelephoto primes from all manufacturers are among the sharpest lenses made, not that other lenses aren't good but it does give you an edge.
Sharpness does not depend on having a mirrorless body but advances is focus technology and tracking ARE advantages.
I do not know mr Wells or his work, but I am guessing that this was not a casual or lucky shot. The investment of time and persistence plays a big role in the difference between 'Nice shot" and a clear winner.
So my suggestion is use it as inspiration, rather than a source of frustration.
Good Luck

zacksoccer

Thanks MJ...great insights...when you see a photographer (and you are correct about his entire body of work) of this skill, it does make me want to work to be a better photographer..."use it as inspiration..."

Sinewsworn Loc: Port Orchard, WA

Yes a Prime.

CHG_CANON Loc: the Windy City

I've gotten together with a few UHHers over the years. This week of fog doesn't lend for wildlife though ... I'm down within walking distance of Wrigley Field, but we can look at ideas on the calendar and the general ChicagoLand area in the March / April timeframe when temps rise and our local wildlife gets back into action.

SuperflyTNT Loc: Manassas VA

I get skies like that often with BIF. He probably did push the exposure some. The top of the eagle’s head is slightly blown but I don’t see it as a problem here since there’s plenty of other detail on the head, but look how much brighter white the head is compared to the sky. It’s almost a high key look. My issue is the crop is terrible. There’s so much white to either side it makes the wingtips look cramped. I’d have gone with either a square or portrait crop and left a hair more room at top and bottom.

JeffDavidson Loc: Originally Detroit Now Los Angeles

I have many tack sharp images taken with a D5 and/or D850 and a Nikon 200-500mm zoom with a Nikon TC III 1.4 Teleconverter.
I use a tripod with Gimbal head, BBF, an electronic cable release and a fast shutter speed.

User ID

Rotsa ruck buying your way onto your hero, Wells, level. Could he make that very same image with your current gear ? Ask yourself.

(Download)


(Download)

zacksoccer

Sounds great...I am in the Western burbs, Hampshire, but get downtown fairly often...would love to do a meetup...Do you know Sven Brogen?

zacksoccer

Thanks Jeff...another lens I have considered...

User ID

Nope. Dont know him, never been there.

CHG_CANON Loc: the Windy City

Hampshire ... had to google it, not out that way very much. No on Sven. Don't forget to use your <quote reply>. When planning to be downtown, give me a heads up to coordinate.

Sinewsworn Loc: Port Orchard, WA

SuperflyTNT Loc: Manassas VA

When responding to a particular comment you should use “quote reply” so we know who’s being addressed.

SuperflyTNT Loc: Manassas VA

Sometimes that almost white background makes the shot.

(Download)