Oystercatcher (update - with larger version)

1d2n, 600mm f4 is x1.4, 1/1000s, f7.1, iso 200.

Ican't make my mind up about cropping this one. The blue patch is a loch in the background and, for me, sets the scene. However, that might not work for those who weren't there. I have room on both side. Should I include any, more of the loch, or should I just crop it out?

Larger version here

Very nice, crop out the loch for me, the main focus will be on this beautiful bird rather than my eye driffing off to the top-right hand corner,love the catch light in the eye

I always vote for as much of the environment as possible, as long as its not man-made straight edges. That aside, beautiful image - one of the best Oystercatcher shots I've seen. Love the vivid colours against the muted background/foreground.

Simon

Thanks guys!

Here's a wider version - I think I prefer it.

I prefer the first, as the blue water and lump on the right isn't drawing my eye as much!

1st shows a lot more detail on the bird in my opinion :)

Yes, that's even better! That'll look great as a print.

Simon

Hi Ian,

Super shot, love the colour of that beak against the background. I'm not too keen on the blue, if it was me I think I would crop it to portrait.

Lewis.

It's a beautiful shot. The first is more interesting for web presentation but the second would probably look better printed. Another thing you could do if you wanted would be to clone some of the brown stuff over the loch to remove the distraction. Alternatively, if it's a 'secondary feature', leave it.

Tim

Beautiful Ian - the blue of teh loch really makes it and is much improved in the second crop.

Malcolm

Repost is brilliant Ian - very well done

Had a job making my mind up on which I prefer, both great shots, but I somehow think the detail in the first clinches it for me.

Fran

I like to see a bit of enviroment in shots Ian so its the second for me. This image would suit any style because its such a good shot of the bird itself. Very nice details & well exposed.

Lee

Second for me.... in the first the blue of the Loch looks too much like somebodies elbow has gotten in the way....

I'd crop it to vertical but its a great shot anyway!

Agree with Mark,vertical would work well but nice as is!!

Craig
www.craigchurchill.co.uk