New Joiners - Animals #766

I don't typically gravitate to hummingbird photos that include feeder setups, but this image just feels right. The feeder adds a pop of color and balances the subject well in the frame. A vertical composition was the right call due to the overall proportions and the background bokeh is also a nice touch.

This is very interesting image as it demonstrates behavior not often seen in the wild, and taken with a phone no less. The low key, dark feel to the shot suits it well and brings attention to the interaction between the Butterfly and the Ants. The green and orange tones also work nicely together.

This Fox is putting on quite the pose for the photographer. There almost seems to be a wink and a smile if you look close enough. Placing the subject in the center of the shot works fine. This image would've been considered for the top 10 if the subject was a bit sharper.

This cat image is full of interest thanks to the photographer's composition. The subject is well lit and tack sharp while the photographer is pleasingly out of focus, yet recognizable in the background. Utilizing a very shallow depth of field is key to that success. The human interaction here tells a great story.

I don't normally come across post-mortem images of birds, but this shot really speaks to me. It tells a sad story of the consequential impacts that wildlife encounter near our roadways. The film aspect and grainy quality suit the overall feel and the Rail's expression appears to be a judgement of us.

The initial reaction might suggest the metal fence is a distraction in this scene, but I think it actually adds interest. The fence provides a leading line to the bird and frames it up nicely. The rust color also blends in with the brown and tawny tones throughout the shot. .

The grainy and gritty quality in this Mute Swan image suggests it could've been captured on film many years ago. It has an almost antique like quality that's brought to life by the black and white conversion and imperfections within the frame. The statue is centered proper and the birds form a proper line.

This Red Squirrel shot is rather humorous at first glance, but it also tells a story of our passion to capture these animals in the wild. Sometimes they might be just as curious and interested in us as well. I've seen this happen a few times out in the field and this image speaks to that reality.

This Macaque portrait is captivating due to the proper usage of lighting. The light comes down from the top left corner of the frame and hits the face just right, illuminating the eyes and bringing an expression to life. The hair on the back of the face and chest create a nice rim light as well.

The cool, blue tones and surrounding snow compliment these Atlantic Puffins well. The opposing looks to each side of the frame form a V shape and also add interest. The moody and smooth skies in the background contract nicely with the textures in the foreground. Also, the upwards looking perspective is unique.

This Fox image contains some great compositional techniques to the trained eye. I'm immediately drawn to the curve that starts at the tail tip and winds itself around to the outstretched tongue. The golden front light is very pleasing as is the low level perspective providing a more intimate feel.

This Lion profile is a standout due to the solemn and almost painful expression it seems to be making. This gives the image a sense of feeling and connection with the viewer. The black and white conversion eliminates any color distractions and brings the viewer's focus on the animal's textures.

I love when photographers make good use of strong angled light. A fast shutter speed to expose for the highlights creates a dark, studio like effect. This Roseate Spoonbill appears to be dancing as it takes center stage without any distraction. The pose is graceful and suits this bird species perfectly.

At first glance I assumed this was an intimate moment captured between two Green Monkeys until I read the photographer's caption. The angled perch provides proper support for both subjects. The surrounding foliage in the background offers some color and a sense of their preferred environment. Some highlights are noticeable but do not distract from the monkeys.