New Joiners - Animals #738

This is quite an elegant image and that's due mostly to the these gorgeous, pink flamingos. The dancing and coming together pose works well and a also forms some unique shapes upon close inspection. The darkened background and vignette help the birds stand out more in the frame and gathers all attention where it needs to be.

A great usage of light here as this cat is lit nicely by the beams incoming from the adjacent window. The two chair cushions add a pop of color to the frame and the placing of the subject fits into the rule of thirds composition rule. Further, there's a nice diagonal line splitting the frame, which is formed by the chair backs.

Now this is an impactful image that brings you right into the scene. At first glance, I can feel the action and all the chaos that's happening here. The perspective is near eye level which increases the level of intimacy. I'm immediately drawn to the leaping Wildebeest and the water splashing all throughout the frame. Amazing work and an amazing moment!

What a dynamic action image between two Starlings fighting each other. The expressions of anger and engagement between both birds are quite evident and captured well here. You can feel the tension. It's also a plus that both birds are entirely within the focus plane while the background is pleasingly blurred.

I'm really enjoying the variety of green tones when viewing this Mallard image. The duck's head posture creates a pleasing curve that enhances the composition and cuts through the center of the frame towards the lower right corner. I also appreciate how the bright green feathers on the head lead the viewer directly to the eye.

The subject's expression leads the viewer to believe this Monkey is one slip away from a lot of trouble. I suspect this isn't the case, but it certainly increases interest for the audience and ties together a nice storyline for the composition. There's a nice diagonal line that supports the Monkey in splitting the frame between focus and out of focus elements.

This is a really interesting silhouette of a Chimpanzee. Without knowing, it's difficult to determine what is hanging from its face or perhaps it's a tongue extension. Either way, it looks super interesting. The ropes also frame the primate nicely and add a bit of texture. Is anyone else getting a Sasquatch vibe?

This Moose image has a very busy surrounding of color and texture, but it still supports the overall image in a positive way. The calling posture demonstrates the animal's behavior and the paddle shadow on the body is a nice bonus after a closer look. It's amazing how tall these animals are.

This Steer image is a good example of how motion can be captured in a more powerful way. Rather than completely freezing the action, the photographers uses a slower shutter speed and pans the camera to create some blur but also keep the most important aspects in focus such as the subject's head.

Using a reflection can be a powerful tool in animal photography. This Heron image is really unique since the incorporated reflection helps to form a full circle that immediately deceives the eye to focus on the shape even before the bird itself. The primary feathers of the wing touching the water is also a plus.

Moths are impressive with subtle beauty, but this particular species is a knockout at first glance. I rather like how the house is out of focus, yet still visible in the frame which adds a bit to the story. Exposure is pushed a bit but it's necessary for the Moth to be bright enough in the frame.

Sometimes a wide view or perspective isn't always necessary to showcase an animal's preferred habitat. In this instance, a relatively tight photo incorporating a surrounding rock structure around the Mountain Goat speaks volumes in describing its preferences. The textures stand out as does the slight vignette applied to bring focus to the frame's center.

This is an interesting take on a Tiger portrait. The black and white conversion supports the overall dark mood of the image. Keeping some color in the eyes help them stand out, especially the one illuminated by the beam of light streaking across the face. A fierce representation of a fierce animal.

This portrait of an Orangutan is powerful and comical at the same time. The rim lighting around the subject emphasizes its shape along with the hairy texture. The engagement factor is high with the eye contact that appears quite serious in contrast to the grinning like expression coming from the mouth.