Vella Kendall
July 2026 - Grey-Crowned Crane
Original
About the Image(s)
Canon 7D Canon 100-400
ISO 3200 390MM F/5.6 1/1000
Taken many years ago in Tanzania while on safari. Someone showed me a photo of a stork he took and reminded me of this photo which is one of my favorites. Had been taking photos of storks circling an elephant when I saw this family of cranes including little babies. Cropped and did normal exposure settings at first. I then used the masking in Lightroom and added some texture and also added a vignette.
6 comments posted
Hi Vella
I don't remember ever seeing a picture of a crowned crane before what a spectacular bird,the colours stand out so well against the dark background,and having taken the image from the rear all colours and how they blend together are on full show,great D.O.F. this I think would do so well for you in a nature competition. Posted: 07/04/2026 13:38:05
I don't remember ever seeing a picture of a crowned crane before what a spectacular bird,the colours stand out so well against the dark background,and having taken the image from the rear all colours and how they blend together are on full show,great D.O.F. this I think would do so well for you in a nature competition. Posted: 07/04/2026 13:38:05
Thanks never thought about entering it. Posted: 07/04/2026 14:41:33
Vella, yes I saw them also in Africa. I like the body position of your capture. Very sharp and very strong colors. Posted: 07/06/2026 17:02:25
I'm in constant awe of how photography and technology has changed so dramatically. You did a wonderful job of cropping and enhancing this beautiful image. I'm surprised that Issac didn't suggest flipping the bird horizontally. Anyway, I'll suggest it. Posted: 07/08/2026 15:12:02
Vella, it is a rare treat when we get a chance to take a picture of a bird with so many striking colors. You captured this one well. I also love the soft background behind the head, which helps bring out the bird even more. Good job! Posted: 07/11/2026 13:36:54
The colors are striking and the image is tack sharp. It's position, when you pushed the shudder button, enhanced the cranes colors. Like Isaac, I have been fortunate to have made images of this bird on several occasions in Africa. Well done. Posted: 07/14/2026 00:32:08