Trumpeter Swan

[BCrose]

On my evening paddle around the local lake I came across this magnificent creature and was fortunate enough to capture a few shots.
The second one is a little tight as I was using a 500mm lens and when it decided to fly (spooked by a fisherman) I was too close.

[IzzieK]

Awww....I love the second one. It has the action and the look as it fly away...The splash of water as it was about to fly is an added bonus. I am by no means an expert on birds here, but I like what I see here...just like what Geoff or John 2 said before, static birds in any photo competition does not get the nod to win, but a bird doing something unusual does. The last shot might qualify for that "action" shot needed in a competition...I like the spread of the wings here too...different.

[Shadowman]

Very nice.

[gregj1763]

I would thank the fisherman Monte, the second image is brilliant, lots of action.
What 500mm lens do you use

[ied]

Beautiful shot Monte. I like the soft evening light here. The second one is my favourite
because of it being an action shot.

Irene

[Dave Humphries]

Hi Monte,

I would be delighted if I had taken the second image - you have really nice light, angle of light (catch-light in eye), angle of flight, vignette, excellent focus and exposure all contributing to a top class result.

Well done, Dave

[CaolIla]

On my evening paddle around the local lake.

Love it! Sounds so casual.. Like a walk around the block.

Nice result, btw.

[BCrose]

Thanks everyone for the positive feedback. It is greatly appreciated.

Greg: This is the 500mm Nikon VR mounted on the D810.

[terrib]

Beautifully done. Both. But as everyone else has said, the second is special. One of these days, I'm gonna get out in a kayak!

[bnnrcn]

#2 for me too, great light and posture IMO you don't need so much water in the FG in #1.