Burrowing Owl

I really like this pose, Richard. Your usual excellent technique.

Check out them eyes! I like how you framed this. The slight wing movement adds a little bit of reality and interest. I also really like how the background color compliments the Owl. Good details and overall sharpness.

"...I'm not getting out in the 112 degree weather...." - Wow! now that's hot! I don't blame you one bit as I would be fried!

Nicely Done.

nice one, Richard. The eye contact makes you wonder if he needs dessert after his last meal.

HI Richard,

I noticed earlier today that my next comment would take me over the 3000 threshold. I can't believe how fast time passes. It seems such a short time ago that I made my first hesitant post, and then very reluctantly commented on someone else's photo. I guess it has been a few years, and I have learned a tremendous amount here. No one is a better teacher than you, so it is with pleasure and seems appropriate that number 3001 is this one.

As always this is technically flawless, that is a given with anything you ever post. I like the monochrome feel of this and that is also something you do often and well. Great detail, wonderful eyes, and that bit of residual blood on the face reminds us that however "cute" this is a predator.

Great work, and thanks for all the help you have provided.

Peter

You did a perfect job of rendering the background into totally soft bokeh. The owl looks great.

If I was to be picky I would like to see both wings down for symmetry sake. I am sure I am alone in that view point because I understand this pose adds interest to him cause he is doing SOMETHING... What a bloody mess, did you catch the meal too?

Nice detail and I like the intent stare.

If I was to be picky I would like to see both wings down for symmetry sake. I am sure I am alone in that view point because I understand this pose adds interest to him cause he is doing SOMETHING... What a bloody mess, did you catch the meal too?

- Benjamin DeHaven

View this image in the context of my previous two posts (here and here.)

This is a series showing a variety of poses from a single bird in a short period. I've never subscribed to the view that every image needs to fit some arbitrary formula of what is and is not correct.

No, I didn't see what the meal was. The owl came into this rock with a bloody face and I just got to enjoy watching it for a bit.

Love the brown tones here. The blood on the beak tells the viewer what he has been up to. No nits from me. You are fortunate to have access to this very interesting and photogenic species.

Riveting stare, subtle BG and simple composition. The interesting thing to me about your work Richard, if I may, is your uncompromising attitude toward what you define as artistic and compelling.

Great Pose!!! Nice work Richard!

Ken Archer

another good looking Burrowing Owl, Rich. I love the browns throughout the image, as well as the active pose and your comp. Interesting to note how much larger the pupil is on the eye that is in the shade.

I really like the colors and how they blend in this series plus the look the owl can give is very amusing. Interesting what Brian said about the pupil, I never noticed that before. Well done Rich.

Awesome! Looks like a pitcher on the mound with this excellent pose. (Maybe the Phillies could pick him up in some sort of trade...LOL!) Sharon

Great pose and expression. You get a good look at the funny legs too. Wonderful portrait.

Awesome pose Richard. I also like what you did with the background.

Lovely low perspective and clarity Richard

cheers
Rob

This is my favorite of the series so far Richard,

Great BG and lighting. Really nice shot, Richard.

Very nice Richard.
May

Hi Richard,
I think this is my favorite in the series. Very nice presentation.
Thanks for posting,
Ronnie G.

That large view looks very nice Richard, the excellent quality really comes through at ISO 100.
Like that right wing slightly raised-up, and the creamy smooth complimentary bokeh..
Admire your work.

Beautifully done! Love the pose, background and especially the different dilation in the eyes. The one that is shaded by his brow is more dilated than the one in direct sunlight showing just how sensitive to light their eyes are. Wonderful shot.

This is my favorite of this series,,,,the posture of the bird gives it more interest.

Terrific pose Richard, lighting is wonderful as well.

Terrific Richard! In addition to all the other positives already mentioned I really like the similar colors in bird, perch and background. My favorite of the series too.

I like the intent stare and evidence of dinner. Nice background too.

A great shot with good eye contact and a lovely background.
Well done

Geoff.

Somehow I missed this trio of owl images when you posted them. They are such a pleasure. I'm sure I will come back to them. Well done.