Magpie Lark

[summerbreezing]

I caught this chap when I was trying to find something interesting for the rivers assignment. Much as I like the bird I am wondering about the composition. Is the background too distracting or do the lines of colour help create an interest? What could I have done to improve this please?

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/summerbreezin/DPSForumPosts/photo#5171219820859712450"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/summerbreezin/R8PdB13NY8I/AAAAAAAADeo/vCSqX4uTvGk/s400/river%20015%20copy.jpg" /></a>
Nikon D80
F8
1/80s
ISO 100
Focal length 135mm

[wulf]

Unfortunately, I think the bird's camouflage works against you. Yes, the black is obvious but the white blends into the sandbank in the background. Cropping down to make it relatively larger might help although it would have been more distinct if you had got a little lower (so the bird is set more against the near-bank water of the river).

Wulf

[summerbreezing]

Thanks for the feedback Wulf - much appreciated. I see what you are saying and looking more closely at the background is something I am trying to pay more attention to. With a bird, its usually quick and dirty for me but I'm sure there will be another opportunity.