Rainbow Bee Eater Victoria

[Toddyh]

This pair were just near the snowy river in Victoria

[wigz]

That is very nice Toddy. Its a pity that one bird's head is hidden. If you have the pixels I would crop from the left to just past the out-of-focus branch and then clone out some of the twigs and branches on the right. I went looking for these on Tuesday, and found some, but couldn't get close enough for a shot.

[Toddyh]

I already cropped this a bit Alan. I could clone out the out of focus branch I guess.

[wigz]

Not a big deal Toddy. I just think images look better balanced when there is more space where the bird is looking, rather than placing the bird in the centre. Perhaps consider a slightly different crop.

[Isac]

100% agree with wigz for the crop Todd. Rule-Of-Thirds would work a treat for this image, which BTW is very appealing.

[Ralph]

These are supposed to be in my area or maybe a little south.
I have not seen them with my own eyes but members of the new bird club I joined here have posted some.
I have to say these are high on my list of wanting to get and one like this would please me to no end.

[Ironwood]

I love seeing these little birds, unfortunately they are always too far away for a good photo.
The focus and lighting is great on the male, pity the other one (female, I think) was turned away when you clicked the shutter.

[HansE]

I saw some in Africa probably do not look the same but beatiful little birds.

[Toddyh]

Thanks all. I've been chasing these guys for a few years now. They do not like sitting still at all.

[Toddyh]

A different crop after finally having a look at the Raw files

[Isac]

ROT works sometimes Todd and I think it's a lot better. I'd clean up that small bit on the left and smudge the harsh shadow on the branch as well. A big improvement

[Toddyh]

Thanks Greg. Will clean up that smudge for sure.
I considered cloning out the small branches but ended up liking the lichen on them.

[Isac]

All good Todd. I was meaning the harsh shadow on the big branch. Lots of ways to fix that. Have a play.

[Toddyh]

Thanks Greg. Got it.