Today is a holiday in observance of Veterans Day. I made good use of my day by visiting the Chula Vista Nature Center. Among many other displays are birds captured that were sick or injured. The Center nursed them back to health and now provides a safe home so folks like me can get up close to some rare a beautiful birds. Here are three from my day's visit.

CF

Of the three I like the last one the most. I love the sharpness and DOF.

Thanks Copy Kot for the input. I appreciate at it.

CF

A bright, crisp autumn day with direct sun - about as difficult a situation (photographically) as you can encounter. That last one is terrific!

In situations like this, expect deep dark shadows - use that to your advantage in picking specific angles/subjects.

Thanks Loupey, I was hoping you would check in and like one of these. I appreciate the commens.

CF

Will my checking in be OK too :lol:

The redtailed(1st) and barn owl show the directional lighting, but I think you did a great job here. The red-shouldered hawk (3rd) is definately your best image due to no uneven lighting and proper natural looking use of flash(or atleast that catch light give me that impression).

Paul,

Absolutely you can check in. Thanks very much for your comments, I appreciate it very much. No flash used on any of these images. I had the mid-morning sun to work with and while a bit harsh it was showing off the colors of the birds nicely. In addition, both hawks were being held by handlers and thought a flash might add to the stress of the birds.

Thanks again.

CF

Well that is some great lighting you had there IMHO.

Thanks, Paul. The lighting was a bit harsh but overall, for me, I was entertained and pleased to be out on a holiday.

Thanks again,

CF

Very nice! I agree with the others, the last one is perfect.

Quetzal:

Thanks very much for the comment. I appreciate your time.

CF