Birds and light are still a challenge up here in Montana but both are finally improving.
1/2000, f/6.3, ISO 1600, Canon 7D Mark II, Canon EF500mm f/4L IS II USM +1.4 tc, not baited, set up or called in
Yesterday morning I photographed this handsome Ferruginous Hawk as it was apparently perch-hunting in the Centennial Valley. This bird is one of a pair that has been perching on some power poles close to the road for several years now (at least I believe it to be the same birds) so unlike most of the Ferruginous Hawks around here they have become acclimated to traffic (I shoot from my pickup) and quite approachable. I’d have preferred a natural perch but at least this time I found the bird on a low fence post instead of an ugly power pole with all those wires.
It’s only a “hawk on a post” but I like the image because the subject is beautiful and I like the background and the bold direct eye contact and raised right foot that also lifted part of what Elephant’s Child would call its “britches or pantaloons”.
This image was processed and posted from a laptop so I really don’t have an accurate idea of what it looks like. Please don’t hesitate to point out any deficiencies.
Ron
You can even see that big gape head one. Great photo of a magnificent raptor!
For my money, this is a gorgeous shot of a gorgeous bird. I, too, like the raised foot.
No deficiencies at all. None. Nada. Zip.
I am very glad to see that you are learning an appreciation of beautiful britches too.
Thanks everyone, I’m glad you liked the image. I finally had some good light this morning and a few birds even showed up so I may (or may not…) have some interesting shots to post over the next few days (if this sucky internet connection cooperates). Thanks for showing your support even when I’m on the road and usually can’t reply to comments!
No place is any prettier than the Centennial. And add to that a gorgeous Ferruginous hawk, and you have a marvelous image. The pose with the one foot raised and the turned head are elegant. Enjoy your trip!
In Asian art, there is a pose known as the Royal Pose or Royal Ease Pose. It is typically the figure leaning back on an elbow with one knee raised. It is said to indicate a readiness for action and a calmness of spirit. I think this bird is evocative of that pose. I really like this.
What a regal creature ! I think the soft horizontal cloud bands in the background offset the bird beautifully…….seeing this image started my day off right .
Yup! Just a hawk on a post. And that other stuff…just a bunch of bird pictures. This hawk happens to be so doggone movie star handsome, it almost hurts to look at him…he is GORGEOUS!!! It’s hard to believe that he doesn’t even know it!!!
Hope the trip is goingwell….on all counts.
Ron, no deficiencies, right down to the “britches”. Thanks.
Beautiful portrait Ron !
Ron – what deficiencies? I see none!
A beautiful shot b b Ron!
Charlotte
I understand why you took this shot, what a beauty!! He/she must recognize who you are and posed. Great shot!!