Another possible shot from the island sanctuary

[FlyingKiwiGirl]

How does the picture look generally? Too much leaf surrounding the owl, does that distract you? (Not that it could have been any different)

[sk66]

If you hadn't told me you had stitched the eye I wouldn't have known.
BG distractions is one of the hardest things in bird photography...It's something you have very little control over but which has a huge impact on the image. In this case it's not terrible but it is busy and something of a distraction/negative....Only option is post work and it can easily wind up looking fake.

[FlyingKiwiGirl]

I'm chuffed you couldn't pick up about the eye! I have learnt so much from this website, you are all fantastic and I appreciate the time you all give in helping us newbies!

I think I'll be leaving the BG, too much work and I think I'd stuff it up anyway.

[Bruce A]

I'd have never noticed the eye work also. It's a great shot and yes, the background is a little busy. Shame, but not so bad Shellie. Trust you had fun doing this?

[FlyingKiwiGirl]

Thanks Bruce, you know what, I've just realised that's NZ mistletoe surrounding Mr Ruru, I'm lucky he didn't swoop down for a kiss ....... or leave a deposit on my shoulder as I passed by!

[Bruce A]

Originally Posted by FlyingKiwiGirl

Thanks Bruce, you know what, I've just realised that's NZ mistletoe surrounding Mr Ruru, I'm lucky he didn't swoop down for a kiss ....... or leave a deposit on my shoulder as I passed by! I'm wondering if this is one of the 2 fledglings or a parent that we saw back in January when we visited. Man I've come a long way in photography since then! Perfect shot and didn't manage to capture the family of 4 sitting right on a branch in front of us(not up high like this one)

PS- so can you tell me which eye is stitched?

I went to the Zoo in Dunedin if I recall correctly, and was left with a huge deposit in the hood of my duffel coat. Must have been an escaped King Condor or something. Didn't realize of course until I pulled it over my head - okay, stop it - wasn't funny

I believe you stitched his left eye.

[FlyingKiwiGirl]

Ok smarty pants

[Bruce A]

[/QUOTE]