As we gain more and more experience, bird photographers become more critical of the pics that they take. With this shot, when the original size is viewed close up on my monitor, I'm not 100% satsfied with the focus - especially of the eyes. Most people probably wouldn't see the difference when framed at various smaller sizes, though.

A few years ago, I wouldn't have given it a thought, but today I have to look twice and be more critical of whether to accept or reject a photo. There are older photos on my site that I would not post today.

But, ego being what it is, it was the light that played in the balance for me in keeping this shot.

Then, there is also the point that there are many people out there less critical than fellow bird photographers. They prefer looking at the whole of the image to appreciate the feelings that it evokes, such as artists, rather than concentrate on some technical detail. Decisions, decision,.

Canon 40D with 100-400 lens @ 1/1600, f6.3, with +2/3 compensation, ISO 200 at 400mm lens focal distance.

Cheers,

Mike