Fierce Squirrel - Backyard Variety

[LindaKnox]

I asked for some constructive criticism on this photo a couple of days ago, but got no response and then it disappeared. ???
I am happy with this shot, but I can't get better if I don't get some other viewpoints. Your comments are most appreciated. Thanks in advance.

[24Freak]

I'm a beginner so I don't feel right seriously critiquing your photo.

However I am a HUGE fan of squirrels, and this shot is wayy too cute! You caught the perfect expression as the little guy was looking at you, and I love how the background is very blank, leading they eye directly to him. What was the EXIF data on this, I'm curious to know?

[Dodge]

Hi Linda,

Firstly, what a terriffic capture. I especially love the brown tones and overall warmth they create.

If I were being hyper critical, and I stress, very hyper critical, I would say a little more depth of field possibly, as his eyes may not be 100% in focus, (i'm becoming way too anal about that ), but again I had to look on your largest flickr image to pick that up and am still uncertain. With that said, I wouldn't have changed that if it meant sacrificing the neutral background.

It's kind of hard to critique him for you just for the sake of it though. I'd be seriously jumping for joy with that shot ! Just as I would with your 'wierd bug' shot in your flickr stream.

[LindaKnox]

Originally Posted by Dodge

Hi Linda,

Firstly, what a terriffic capture. I especially love the brown tones and overall warmth they create.

If I were being hyper critical, and I stress, very hyper critical, I would say a little more depth of field possibly, as his eyes may not be 100% in focus, (i'm becoming way too anal about that ), but again I had to look on your largest flickr image to pick that up and am still uncertain. With that said, I wouldn't have changed that if it meant sacrificing the neutral background.

It's kind of hard to critique him for you just for the sake of it though. I'd be seriously jumping for joy with that shot ! Just as I would with your 'wierd bug' shot in your flickr stream.

Thanks very much for your comment. I actually had my crosshairs set directly on his nose I think on this one. I'll have to check. I took several and I believe I focused on his eye at least once to catch that highlight. I do appreciate your time to make the suggestions. Also, that for the nice comment on the bug. I found out that he is an immature version of a male katydid. I've since seen a female as well. She is all green. Thanks again.

[LindaKnox]

Originally Posted by 24Freak

I'm a beginner so I don't feel right seriously critiquing your photo.

However I am a HUGE fan of squirrels, and this shot is wayy too cute! You caught the perfect expression as the little guy was looking at you, and I love how the background is very blank, leading they eye directly to him. What was the EXIF data on this, I'm curious to know?

Well, first let me thank you for your comments. I'm really a beginner too and I'm seriously trying to learn this stuff. It's not that easy. I like the squirrels too.
You asked for the EXIF data:
Canon 20D
Canon 75-300 mm lense on a tripod
Exposure: 0.005 sec (1/200)
Aperture: f/6.3
Focal Length: 300 mm
ISO Speed: 400
Exposure Bias: 0 EV
Flash: Off, Did not fire

The ISO is high because I was actually trying to catch some birds near the feeder. I didn't bother to change it but just snapped some quick ones of him as he pouted. He has destroyed four feeders so we bought one called "The Eliminator" that he can't get into. He's really mad about it and won't stop trying. The background actually is a lot of brown tree trunks in my back yard. I did get a pretty nice bokeh effect...probably luck more than anything. Overall, I am happy with the shot. I really do appreciate your time and comments.