Gesture is a key part of photography. When it comes to wildlife gesture is important for helping the audience connect with the subject. Whether it’s a dramatic pose or a funny one, everything look, stance, and direction is important to be aware of.
This Forster’s Tern was photographed with the D5 and 600 f/4 while on the Texas coast last year. While it’s just preening it’s feather, that cocked head gesture and closed eyes makes for a unique composure. Preening is a great time to look for a different angle with critters because there heads keep moving creating unique gestures.