Great Crested Grebe (Podiceps cristatus)

I've been out most evenings for the past few weeks trying to capture courting Grebes. They are on the lake, and they are courting as if the World will end in 20 minutes but, do they come anywhere near the bank whilst doing it - like hell they do. Oh for a floating hide.

Every now and again though, one will break off and go on a fishing trip and will swim past so close that my 500 is too much.....

Camera Model Canon EOS-1D Mark III
Tv( Shutter Speed ) 1/1250
Av( Aperture Value ) 5.0
ISO Speed 200

A nice close-up shot - like the drops of water.

a superbly detailed image .Not too sure on the format , can I get back to you on it.?

The comp doesn't quite work for me but what nice portrait it is. Might even stand a touch (not much) more sharpening but some brilliant detail.

Brett

Thanks chaps. This was a tough one. I didn't expect the Grebe to surface right in front of me, so I grabbed half a dozen shots. As I said, he/she was close and completely filled the frame, so I went for the crop above.

Any alternative suggestions gratefully received as I love the detail and the light.....

Nice close up. I always think they should invent a 5000mm just for Grebes.

Very nice and detailed portrait.

Very clean picture, a small crop off the top for me though , the top 15% adds nothing to the comp.

Bob.