I'll never not shoot hawks

[mdphotography]

But they can present a challenge, because they often have their backs to the sun - especially when hunting.  I caught this one with just enough lighting to bring out the detail in post production: lightened shadows and some warming.  I add a little texture and clarity to the subject mask and did a very light pass (40%) of Lightroom AI denoise

I'd love to get some feedback on the post production - I thought about isolating the eyes to bring out more contrast but I think they're just a little too dark.

f5.6, 1/4000, iso500

[mdphotography]

here's the original (uncropped) for comparison

[Tintype_18]

Good photo in the right place at the right time.

[JFG]

Hi  mdphotograph,

I agree with you, hawks can be challenging to shoot while in flight.  Your post production looks good, however it's a subjective opinion.   If you're happy with the way it looks, than that is all that matters.  Post production is where you bring out the subject as your minds eye sees it, and where your artistic creativity shines.  I like how you caught it heading towards you and the position of the wings showing motion.  Because it's a red tail hawk I would like to see a bit more red on its tail.  Having said that,  I  like the way the light makes it seem a bit transparent.  That's my opinion.  All in all, it's a nice shot.  Kudos! 👍