Adrian Binney, PPSA, LRPS  


Green Heron With Crab by Adrian Binney, PPSA, LRPS

July 2024 - Green Heron With Crab

July 2024 - Adrian Binney, PPSA, LRPS

Original

July 2024 - Adrian Binney, PPSA, LRPS

Original 2

About the Image(s)

This was taken when in Aruba (a southern Caribbean Island) in February. We stalked this guy along a small river while he was looking for a small fish or grubs or small crabs. I chose this image as the reflection in that area was pretty good. It's not a dramatic image, but I like the colour and situation. I grabbed a single shot as he came up with his prize. Settings with Olympus gear with my 100-400mm lens (at 400mm, or FF 800) at 1/1,250 f6.3 and ISO 12,800 (situation was relatively dark despite being approx mid day). I developed the bird locally in Lightroom, with texture and clarity plus curves, and the shadow to a lesser extent. I brightened the eyes tad. Finally, I pushed it through Topaz Phot A1 for noise and sharpening, then cropped to square. I have an extra image, being another Green Heron captured earlier in the trip at a river in Dominica for interest - I also like this, but feel it is let down by my angle from above.


This round’s discussion is now closed!
7 comments posted




Bruce Benson   Bruce Benson
Hey Adrian, Greenies are always fun to photograph and you did a nice job of this one, The image seemed a little flat to me so I added a bit of conrast and also rotated it just a bit.
Bruce   Posted: 07/04/2024 22:35:53
Comment Image
Adrian Binney   Adrian Binney
Thanks Bruce. I like your input here.   Posted: 07/19/2024 16:24:03



Jerry Biddlecom   Jerry Biddlecom
Most wildlife have adapted to be able to blend into their backgrounds and this might demonstrate a problem with this image, in that the heron does not stand out enough from its surroundings, especially with the clutter of the leaves at top. You did capture a nice reflection. Bruce's version does help to make the bird stand out more. Your original 2 picture, with the flowing water acting as a 'soft' backdrop, might make for an interesting alternative.   Posted: 07/19/2024 13:37:04
Adrian Binney   Adrian Binney
Thanks Jerry - I agree Bruce's work shows off the bird better and will play with my original accordingly.   Posted: 07/19/2024 16:26:26



Cindy Marple   Cindy Marple
I like the moment captured with the crab, and the nice reflection. I like your crop which fits the subject well. I'll also agree with Bruce's version.
I do like a lot about your #2 image but agree the viewing angle is not ideal.   Posted: 07/27/2024 19:25:37



Marge Barham   Marge Barham
(Group 38)
Adrian what a difference Bruce's crop and rotation makes. It brings so much more attention to the two of them. I don't like that leaf in the water but nature isn't always perfect either.
But wow for you catching its prize crab. Well done.
  Posted: 07/28/2024 00:41:58



Steve Cole   Steve Cole
Yes, good job in catching the "crab" capture before he swallowed it. The noted touch up of the lighting as suggested does work well with your well-captured photo.   Posted: 07/28/2024 13:55:42