IMG_0080

Good framing...like the diagonal of the wings across the frame. The subject is in a very graceful pose, too.

It seems either the bird is out of focus, or the shutter speed was too slow and the bird's face is unsharp because of it.  At 1/400th I would say this is subject movement.  I try to use at least 1/1000th, although sometimes for a slow-moving bird, I can get away with 1/800.  Also, it looks to me (on my monitor) as though the highlights are blown.  Did you check for blinkies, and look at your histogram?

Best regards,

Dennis

Yup. Dennis said it all. If I had to guess, you were using average weighted exposure. The scene is exposed perfectly, but a white bird in the sun is an over-exposure nightmare. With the sun hitting this guy, you could have shot him easily at 1/1000th. No question. Other than the missed exposure/shutter speed, you nailed the composure. Right on the money. Always try to at least be in center weighted metering at least for wildlife. The subject is more important than the rest of the scene. Also, if your out for birds and such, AV mode is great to keep your lens wide open, and the shutter speed is adjusted around light meter. Hence the importance of center weighted or spot metering. Or, if your anything like me. You'll be in manual mode, get stuck with a guy like this coming in, and be stuck on the last shot setting I had in the shade! LOL!

Thanks guys for the helpful input. I appreciate it.  I will have to scrutinize my settings from subject to subject. I was shooting a yellow crowned night heron and saw this guy coming in and didnt change a thing...obviously

Thanks again