Buteo

Hi Okan,

What a beautiful picture! Like a statue of a great hero! It's a pleasure to watch this streamlined profile against the blue sky. Such a simple yet powerful composition! Your picture is all about contrasts: warm colors in the subject against cold colors in the background, subject with great details against plain, detailless background! This makes your subject stand out with ease! Technically there isn't too much to critique about this picture. You've nailed it down correctly with a perfect exposure. But artisticaly, there are three things I would like to mention about this photo. Two of them are controllable by the photographer and one is a matter of chance. Some of them are subjective since art is subjective.
1. If it was my photo I would have gone for a vertical composition as you did with many other excellent photos of yours. I think it would be more appropriate for this one.
2. I would have loved to see the silhouette of the beak as well if possible at all. If not, then I would be equally satisfied with a 3/4 or front view, with both eyes visible. But this is just a matter of chance, especially if you only have a few seconds to take your shot.
3. A well documented note would be appreciated by many members who want to learn about this species. I've done some quick research on the Internet and there are some good websites where you can find more information about your subject than you are allowed to post. Here is a link where I found interesting facts about the Common Buzzard:

http://www.birdsofbritain.co.uk/bird-guide/buzzard.htm

This doesn't mean your picture isn't good. I like it a lot! Actually I like it so much that I envy you. Today I missed a common buzzard photo just because my camera was in the bag. Honestly, I'm glad you managed to capture it so well and showed it to us. I was more than pleased to find your picture here on TN! You did a very good job! Thank you!

Friendly regards,
Eddie