They don't sit still very long.
Great pose and capture. Wish they would do that at my house. The Jays around here wont get within 100 feet of the house and disappear when I go outside.
Super. Great captures at just the right moment. Love the feeding.
I would suggest you and your friend take 10 pictures of the same subjects, then swap cameras and take the same 10 pictures with the other person's camera and compare results.
Try Canon's ZoomBrowser EX. It does most of my simple editing, but doesn't deal with RAW files. If you can't find a download, let me know and I will send you a copy of the CD that will install it.
It appears to be a leucistic cardinal. Leucism, or leukism, is an abnormal plumage condition caused by a genetic mutation that prevents pigment, particularly melanin, from being properly deposited on a bird's feathers. Fairly rare, but happens occasionally.
Do the leaves belong with the blossom? They do not look like tulip leaves, but if they are from some other plant, then the blossom may be a tulip.
Be prepared for great scenery. That's a wonderful trip.
ZoombrowserEX works well for 90% of my needs.
In Affinity, use the Inpainting Brush Tool to paint over the offending pole. It does a pretty good job eliminating distractions, especially if it is a contrasting color to the background.
The Hood comes with the $16,000+. Just don't lose it, it will be expensive to replace.
Female Red Bellied Woodpecker. Good shot.
Well, I learn something new every day. Didn't know Amazon did trade-ins. The little box is not very prominent, but it is there. I have dealt with KEH several times and have been pleased with their valuations and service.
I recommend that you spend enough money to take me with you. We were there a couple of years ago. It is beautiful with more photography opportunities than you will be able to take advantage of.