Milvus milvus Red Kite

Seen on New Years Day morning.

Only White-tailed Kites (Elanus leucurus) in my part of the world. Though they hover just like this guy. I think the underwings need more light to make the details pop. And the strong glare on the head could be reduced a little to allow more detail to be seen. Your focus looks good. 5/5 anon

Hello William, thanks for looking.

 

I had been looking at some gates and gravel pit machinery when the kite came along and had the 24-105 on the 20D. I just managed to change lenses and got only a few frames with the kite in frame and before it flew away for a while. The very low and harsh sunlight was always going to be a problem and you are quite right, I haven't really controlled it. I'm just pleased to have got anything.

 

Pete

Peter, I think William is right about the shadows and highlights. I took the liberty to play with it in PS, see the attachment. Very nice capture in any regard. Dieter

Dieter, that's fabulous.

Tricky exposure. I agree with the selective raising of the midtones to get the feather detail. I like the feeling of the bird soaring or hovering.

Hiya Pete,

 

I have a pair of these who scan my garden and take an unhealthy interest in my cats! I am reassured they wouldn't take one but the sheer size of them makes me think twice.

 

The testimony to this shot is that I haven't got one worth posting, excellent work Sir.

 

Best wishes,

 

Kev