Thank you Jerry! I think I am going to play a little more on the crop and see what I like the best.

I actually shot this horizontal but I felt that the bird was lost and decided to crop it vertical. Thank you for your comments.

Thank you! It is the water that really draws me in. I am just wondering if the floats in the water are a distraction.

It is there now. Thanks!

It has been a while since I have posted in the Critique section - mostly spend my photography time with sports. (As the mom of 3 boys )
Going through some pictures from my recent trip home, I came across this shot of a gull and have become drawn to it. I love the blues of the water and the slight refection of the bird. I would love your honest critiques.

(Download)

Good for Canon! Something must be right about the new 6DII!

This is what I do not understand. Certain people bashing a camera that is an entry level full frame. If you are looking for a professional full frame you will spending much more than $2000. My first full frame was the 6D, it was something I could afford at the time and when the time came I was able to spend more for a camera that was perfect for me.

Just got back from Alaska. Basic economy only allows one personal item. The way United handles this is by putting all basic economy passengers in boarding group 5 and strictly watch to see what you are taking on the plane. I would have had a problem if I would have taken my larger camera backpack because it would not have fit under the seat in front of me. On my return trip I flew with the rest of my family (I went a week earlier, but we we were all basic economy) BUT since my husband is the primary on the United card we were able to board in group 2 - they do not stick to the "only one personal item" in boarding group 2. I could have taken a carry on in Boarding Group 2 - but didn't risk it.
I did overhear a United Ticket Agent say the she thinks the basic economy fare would not last long because it is causing more of a problem than solving a one.
As for Alaska, of course, it did not disappoint! It is home for me and I thoroughly enjoyed spending time with family, friends, and showing off my home to my kids!
Now to get busy with all my photos!

Even with a rider, I am not sure that I would check my camera gear. I have used the TSA locks in the past and one time the lock was completely missing and my luggage had been rummaged through. There has to be a more secure way to travel with camera gear.
I think the best is to make sure that you can carry your gear in a carry-on. I am not sure how much longer we will be able to do that though.

I had one and it is a great camera. Not the best for fast moving objects, but can still be used with excellent results. Best for still type photography.

So very true!

I know there has been much talk about some of the new regulations going into effect in regards to international flights and what can be taken on the plane. Here is a new domestic flight problem that I have recently run into. There is a new class of passenger that apparently started in March and that is the Basic Economy class. My husband purchased tickets for our flight to Alaska and did not realize what he was buying. In Basic Economy you are only allowed a personal item, no carry on bag. So for me that means no camera backpack. After much communication with the airlines - we are pretty much stuck. We can purchase a new ticket but will not receive any funds from the old ticket. The basic economy ticket cost us $715.20 per person (times 5), too much to walk away from.
So, be aware of the type of ticket you are purchasing. United, American, and Delta all have this new Basic Economy fare.
I have somewhat scaled back on my lenses and fitting them into a smaller backpack that can count as my personal bag. Even if I trusted the employees enough to check my camera gear, the most you can purchase insurance coverage (through airlines) for is $5000. - that doesn't cover much.
And yes, my husband learned a new lesson - being cheap does not always pay off

Pre Orders for the new Sigma 14mm 1.8 Art have started. Looks like shipping starts this Friday.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1321307-REG/sigma_14mm_f_1_8_dg_hsm.html

I think, if you have been happy with the 6D for the last five years than the 6DII would be an excellent choice for you. You mention wildlife - have you felt that you needed a faster frame rate? If so, then the 5DIV might be better for you. If the $1000 difference isn't off putting is there a chance that you might say, "I should have gotten the 5DIV"?
I shot sports with the 6D for several years before I upgraded to the 5DIV - the 6D did a great job, but the 5DIV does an even greater job.
The 5DIV will have a steeper learning curve.
I probably have not helped in any way. It is a tough decision!

Many have suggested whole new systems and that may be what you want. If you want to stay with your current crop of lenses, you might look at the Canon 6D (they will have a new one sometime this summer) - but it is newer technology than your 7D and smaller/lighter. It is a great travel camera!