Honorable Mention
Goshawk Bathing
DESCRIPTION
One of the most important aspects of any wildlife photograph is the background. It is as important as the subject, and can make or break a great image.The Goshawk is not a frequent sight to photograph. It is very elusive. Here I have managed to not only capture an image, but an image of behaviour rarely photographed, where the bird is relaxed and bathing in its native woodland setting.
Capturing the subject and behaviour is not enough. It needs a great background, and the afternoon sun I was shooting into provided that to perfection, with light bouncing off the leaves of distant trees to create such colourful bokeh. At the same time picking up the spray from the Goshawk as it shook to dry off, as well as showcasing the wonderful chest feather colours of the bird itself.
AUTHOR
I have been taking photographs since receiving my very first camera as a boy. It has always been a part time hobby, with no formal training whatsoever. I like to think I have a good eye for composition, and I am always looking to develop my technical competence.I especially enjoy photographing birds and other wildlife. They are challenging subjects, as they rarely remain still for very long, are often obscured by natural vegetation and can represent challenges in achieving the right light levels.
