Would kill for a shot like this. Very nice catch. These days there are so many photographers posting wonderful bird images but it is the one that is unexpected that stands out. Sweet.

Another vote for the Canon 100-400 IS lens. Love this thing but if you are not using a tripod, do your shooting early in the day before your arms get tired.

Thanks for the info. We have been to that pier and aside from some gulls and cormorants did not see much else. Will go back again on your recommendation. Did get a wonderful image of a tricolored heron the last time we were at Indian Rocks Beach. I'll post it here. Would like to find a green heron that I caught a glimpse of.

Just yesterday I had an HDR composit that I started with the Nik application. The ghosting was not dealt with well at all. Ran the same images through photo matrix and it was very well rendered. Still like the Nik suite overall but just saying.

Hi friends,
Was out shooting this morning in search of some birds on the wing to practice up for an upcoming trip to Indian Rocks Beach in Florida. This guy flew overhead and I had one chance to shoot. Lucky me, my 70-200 Canon Lens and my 7D had all the right settings. It pays to be prepared. Not an exciting shot but the bright red eye is what I was after. Such fun.

New to this forum and just saw your image. Impressed with the level of detail you provided in capturing this image. Really like the composition especially because the heron is doing something. If anything, I would say that while the bird is very sharp, it is a little flat and you would expect this with the lighting situation. You might take it back to post and work on lighting and texture within the bird. Perhaps the wings and a little with the head and eye. Not necessary but you asked for feedback.

Been peeking in for a week now and really enjoy the vibrance of the topics and eager participation. I roll with the canon line and use a 7D with numerous "L" lenses. However, finding my iPhone images are rather nice these days so I am posting a couple of these images to get started with UHH.

from window looking at Crystal Pier in San Diego


Canyon Lands National Park in March