New Joiners - Animals #695

This is quite the scene to come across on a game drive. Getting four Cheetahs together on a mound is not a common occurrence. The elevation allows for a cleaner background and minimal distractions as all the attention can be directed toward each of the subjects. I can only imagine the excitement during this interaction.

This is a gorgeous Barn Owl image due to the pose and immediate surroundings. The symmetrical wing position and outstretched talons look amazing. Further, the wooden fence and surrounding vegetation add interest and color. The photographer stopped down with a depth of field to get the entire scene in focus and it works well.

This horse profile can almost double for a human portrait. The textures in the mane are a plus as well as the catchlight and reflection in the eye. There's a sense of expression that's fairly welcoming to the viewer. As the photographer says, this horse was definitely asking for a photograph.

It's refreshing to see a great underwater image. I love the cool tones and the story within the image including another photographer. The Spinner Dolphins are perfectly positioned in a triangular shape and the reflections in the waterline above them are also very pleasing. I'd love to be in the water with my camera as well!

The color harmony in this bee image is superb as the yellow and orange tones blend well. I also appreciate the diagonal line in the composition formed by the flower and perched bee. A slanted view adds interest for the viewer. The shot contains some grain that is pleasing and helps rather than hurts the overall look and feel.

There were so many great images in this contest, but this shot stood out to me above all others. It's an amazing moment of behavior between the Jacana family. You have the collection of legs underneath the parent and one cute little head sticking out. There's also a nice pop of color from the flower to the left, which helps anchor the frame. Amazing picture!

I have seen many Kingfisher action images, but this shot still stands out. The water splash, positioning of the bird, and reflection just below the waterline are all strong positives. The exposure settings are spot on with a very fast shutter speed and the out of focus background is smooth without distraction.

I do not see many Canada Lynx images and for good reason as they are very difficult to come across in the wild. I love the direct eye contact and level of engagement that's contained in this photo. The perfectly straight line formed by its mouth also attracts my attention.

This is an image that contains subtle interest after some close study. The snow covered branches provide a good sense of habitat along with some interesting curves and shapes. The crow is in silhouette and offers a nice contrast to the surrounding highlights. Corvids are amazing birds and can survive in almost any habitat.

It's always good to have a camera on standby and this shot is proof of that. The green reflections in the water compliment the snake well. Further, the surroundings textures and the reflection help bring the composition together. Being able to capture the extended tongue introduces some behavior and is a result of good timing on the capture.

I love the composition for this Wire Fox Terrier image. Placing the dog on the left side of the frame with it looking in the same direction is bold, but works so well as the bench line helps bring it together. The light direction and quality are also nice and provide a nice contrast between the subject and background.

I like the exposure in this Great Egret image as the whites are rendered properly with the rest of the scene rather dark. A vertical composition is the right call as it includes the full reflection. I suspect the crop may have been difficult as the vegetation line is slanted when compared to he straight line from egret down to the reflection.

This is an adorable kitten portrait. The uplighting by the lamp is a unique angle and has a very pleasing effect on the subject. The cat's expression is curious and the line of DVDs behind the chair create a pleasing and additional layer in the frame. Lastly, the eyes draw you in completely.

This seal image immediately brought a smile to my face. This image is a story of contrast as you have two seals sleeping amongst a vast human made landscape that appears to be busy. The square crop is sufficient, however, it would be great to get an even wider perspective of the overall scene.