Jay in the snow

I quite liked the over-the-shoulder look, but not sure if I should have put the bird a little more to the right so the eye is less central(it's a full frame shot, so would have to move some canvas around). Thoughts?

Dave

1DMkIII + 500mm + 1.4xTC
1/250sec at f/6.3 and ISO400. +2/3EV

You really needed the head turn here. Personally I think you were over gunned, unless you were after a close up head shot.

I think a straight 500 would have given you more options, i.e. profile, vertical etc.

Sharp where it counts and I would consider cloning out what looks like seed. Still a nice shot.

Too true Ray. I was after bullfinches and bramblings and got jays and pheasants !

Dave

really like the setting here, but i agree the pose is a bit lacking, the blue flanks really stand out here in the monochromatic setting

I agree it's a bit tight, but I don't have any shots so would be very happy if it were mine.

Interesting shot and I don't mind the rear view at all, in fact it shows up those blue feathers to great advantage. If I have a nit it is that I find the Oof tail annoying. More DoF would have helped but you take what comes and with unpredictable wildlife there never seems to be time to sort these things out before you press the button. I'd be more than happy to have this shot on my hard drive.
Eric

Nice, lovely setting. The rear view doesn't really work for me I'm afraid, mostly because of the oof tail, and at this angle it makes it look like the bird has a large head on a small body. A portrait format might work a bit better for the pose. Having said that you have got excellent sharpness and detail on the head. Definately plenty of potential for some great shot as this site for you!

I like this one Dave. The tail doesn't bother me and the flanks really stand out. I think your idea of taking some off the right and more on the left would improve it