Non-bird

[tommiejeep]

Elsa, that is a unique image of a Mongoose. It is what shooting wildlife is all about, getting the unusual image.  I shoot many and have never had one give me that reaction.  Even when a Mongoose and I come eye to eye at very close range the reaction is normally surprise and "what do I do now".  I keep thinking that some day I will come across one with a snake.
Many thanks for posting.
Tom

[Mike G]

An awful long time(1960s) ago in Bombay/Mumbai in the hanging gardens a snake charmer whose palm had been crossed with a few Rupees set his mongoose loose on a snake, which took very little time to dispatch the poor old snake!

He also charmed a Cobra from a basket, but he did not let the mongoose anywhere near the Cobra!!!

[Peter Connan]

Elsa, I must agree with Tommie, the original image is definately a stunner.

With regard to the glossy, I must confess a great fondness for these birds. They can make stunning images, and had you used the D800 this particular one would have been the most stunning one I have yet seen. It just lacks that little bit of extra dynamic range to lift the shadows on the back a bit...

I know we have discussed this before, but Albert Froneman who is probably one of SA's best specialist bird photographers says that full-frame is much better for birds, and I think this is why he feels that way.

The only possible exception is the D500, but only because no one I know can afford a D5...

[elsa hoffmann]

Thank you guys. Every day is a learning curve for me - and every time I go out - I get something different. Thankfully - otherwise - had I know everything - it would have been darn boring!