Golden-Headed Cisticola (Non Breeding) ????

[kipper]

Not 100% sure with the ID.
I think it's one of the birds on page 268 - Old World Warblers, in Simpson and Day. I'm thinking, a Golden-Headed Cisticola (Non Breeding)

While I like the shot for it's clear background and pose. Everything went against me. Distance from subject (this is a huge crop), part of a reed going across the bottom toe. So I had to do some cloning out to fix it. Which leaves it quite soft. Not going to bother posting EXIF data. Will have to return to Edithvale Wetlands to capture it better. Had the opportunity today, perfect pose, perfect perch, perfect lighting......but the AF wouldn't lock even though it was sharp in the viewfinder. Just as I was about to hit MF, it flew off. I almost threw the d70 + 70-200vr across the lake.

[Greg B]

Darryl, you do some excellent bird photography, and this is no exception.

Many moons ago, I was a member of the Eastern Suburbs Camera Club (or something like that), and we had a member called Berys Stokes. Berys (who was probably in her sixties 25 years ago) was a fantastic bird photog who had been published in many books and magazines. As a matter of interest, have you ever heard of her or seen her work?

[Killakoala]

The pose is what sets this off as a great shot. Well done.

[kipper]

Thanks for the kind words Greg. I haven't seen or heard of her work. Is there any samples on the internet?

[Glen]

Kipper, are you sure it is a non breeder? How did you tell?

[kipper]

The top of the head looks a dark brown pattern, while the breeder has ginger brown same as the side of the head on top.

[Glen]

Thanks Kipper, glad you explained how you knew, was worried it may entail some sort of physical examination

[kipper]

Simpson and Day shows Juvenille, Adult (Male and Female when there is a distinction) and Breeding (if there is a distinction)

[Manta]

LOVE IT. What a great capture. As has been already said - you've really got the idea when it comes to avians Darryl.

[Matt. K]

Glen
You are sick.

[Glen]

Matt, just wondering how it is done. As well as taking excellent bird photos our young Kipper can sex them as well. Did think it was a bit harsh to label the bloke above a non breeder, you would think he could at least have a go, but Kipper's explanation makes sense

[Manta]

... I almost threw the d70 + 70-200vr across the lake.

I can give you very clear, succinct instructions on the direction and range of my home should you ever feel this way again...

[JordanP]

perfect pose, perfect perch, perfect lighting......but the AF wouldn't lock even though it was sharp in the viewfinder. Just as I was about to hit MF, it flew off. I almost threw the d70 + 70-200vr across the lake.

I've had this problem a bit with the 70-200VR - not sure if is a design issue or what. Has it happened to you alot?

Great shot btw

Cheers,

[mudder]

Wow, this is one of those shots that grabs you straight away, great pose, good lighting, terrific stuff...

[ozimax]

Even tho I wouldn't know a bird from a horse, this is a wonderfully sharp shot. Yes, we do have the Reader's Digest Bird Book somewhere but I've never read it!

Max

[jethro]

darryl
a corker as usual