Masked Weaver

[dakleton]

Hi, I am new to this forum, so still learning the ropes - please be patient.

I have wanted a "real" camera for years, and eventually bought the Nikon D3000 with a Sigma 70-300 zoom in the middle of December. Had a Sony Cybershot 3.0 MP before.

I took this in Pilanesberg Game Reserve in South Africa on Dec 31.

f 5.6 @ 1/1000sec - 300mm, 400 ASA.

Please comment. Have taken plenty wildlife over the last month, but am still learning.

[TheCheesWizz]

I really like the picture overall, but is there anything specific you want us to critique.

[dakleton]

Hi,

Thanks. I was a bit concerned about the depth of field. Have I pushed too much of the background out, or should I try and leave something so that the viewer has an idea in what type of environment the photo was taken? (Although there wasn't too much option with this photo.)

Regards,
Dakleton

[RSCDoug]

IMO, From an aesthetic perspective only, too much background can be distracting. Pulling the background in would have been troublesome since we're already trying to see the bird through the reeds.

I like the shot as is.

[jdars]

Originally Posted by dakleton

Hi,

Thanks. I was a bit concerned about the depth of field. Have I pushed too much of the background out, or should I try and leave something so that the viewer has an idea in what type of environment the photo was taken? (Although there wasn't too much option with this photo.)

Regards,
Dakleton

I honestly think this is perfect. My initial reaction was just WOW, and after I looked at it a bit all I still had to say was WOW. The only thing I can think of would be to move the bird in front of the grass, but you really have no control over that and it looks fabulous as is.