Hi Jerry, I agree that the mud makes a nice background for this white bird. I like the bit of texture in the mud too so that it's got some character, not just a brown mass. The direction of the light is key for that creating the shadows in the mud- and also that wonderful shadow of the bird. All the ruffled feathers on the bird give it some extra character too.
I like the square crop and flipping the image. It "reads" well.
You didn't mention applying a vignette, but it looks to me like one's been added as the edges are all darker. Personally, I'd back off of that a bit so that it isn't so pronounced. But that's a matter of taste.
Nice job with the exposure- white birds are tricky!   Posted: 12/13/2025 22:52:49

Jerry - nice image. You captured this picture of a white bird on a dark background very well. The image shows fabulous feather detail as well as interest in the ground. I agree with Cindy that the vignette is a tad too obvious and I am not sure it requires it (that obvious).

I find it interesting that you tidied up (removed) the bit of grass by his chest (and others), but left the much larger piece by its foot. I think this should go too.   Posted: 12/14/2025 19:09:13