Guardian in the Glow
by Phocal

Comment:

Originally posted by Barroness: Nice capture, he is certainly positioned oddly.

It's actually a very common pose for all the Heron species. They use it to cool down or warm up, and also as a method to eliminate parasites.

Predator's Prize
by Phocal

Comment:

Originally posted by GeneralE: My top pick --well-captured!

Thank you

Evening Ebb, Autumn
by Bear_Music

Comment:
I feel like the boarder distracts the photograph. Something about that bright white boarder and than the grey, it just notice it and it causes me to get distracted from the photograph.

Playful
by Phocal

Comment:
I want to thank everyone for all the comments, it really means a lot. I normally respond to everyone but I work up this morning with a 101.7 temperature, so don't have any energy. It is almost 4pm here and this is the first time I have gotten out of bed.

I am super excited because I have been trying to get a Blue Ribbon in a free study for a lot time now. To do it with an image that has barely any editing in a best of a year extended editing challenge makes it all that better.

If anyone is interested in the full story behind this photo (plus other photos) you can find it here.

You can also find the story behind The King photo here.

Now back to bed.

Ronnie

Message edited by author 2020-02-14 19:52:47.

Not all those who wander are lost
by Neat

Comment:
My top pick. Great image.

Hope In Mordor
by RianBotes

Comment:
Congrats on the Blue, great image. If you ever make it to Alaska let me know and I will take you to meet King & Gorgeous.

Gorgeous
by Phocal

Comment:

Originally posted by Neat: Thought this would ribbon.

You and me both

Hang On..........
by Phocal

Comment:

Originally posted by 3DsArcher: Focus & DOF are stunning. Top effort. Congratulations on your placing

thank you.

Hang On..........
by Phocal

Comment:

Originally posted by GolferDDS: Amazing clarity and sharpness hand held. You have a steady aim. One of my favorites in the challenge.

Thank you. The dual IS Olympus has for the 300/4 is just amazing. Not sure about with the TC but without it I can handhold down to 1/30, but I do have really steady hands. Use to do a lot of competition shooting followed a 20 year military career.

The Crash
by Mond

Comment:
Congrats on the honorable mention and 4th place........................