Jim Dick
Moderator Emeritus
Ron from Big D said:Great image Jim but it would be better with just a little different composition. Had you framed it with the branch tailing off to the lower right corner and placed the bird in the upper right third of the frame, rather than centered; it would be outstanding. Nothing else other than that. It may still be a winner however.
I couldn't believe the images that lost in this competition that I was in. Terrific stuff. Fortunately, one of the committee members was listening to the judges and passed on this advice. Anything that was not well composed and well focused, was automatically knocked out.
Ron,
Composition and focus are most important. Thanks for the advice. With this one there was too much distraction outside of the photo. I got this through some other bushes. I hope to go back for additional shots but, if not, I'll give this one a try. The rule of thirds is important.