I'm playing with my peepers

[Horse with no Name]

and wanted to know which one was technically better...and any suggestions for technique appreciated.:)
these were posted in GD originally.

[MajorChode]

1. #3 is the ideal composition

However the sharpness suffers, the colors are a bit too warm, and shadows are evident from whatever lighting source was used (appears to be an on camera flash from the eyeball reflections).

I suspect autofocus was used because the nest is focused sharply. When photographing animals (or people), the general rule is the eyes should always be sharply focused.

It certainly has the potential to be a great picture, especially if you could capture the look of the bird on the right just peeking over like #2, with the composition of #3. If you have the ability to bounce the light from above, that might be worth experimenting with or the use of an additional flash from the left balanced between the two to create a more natural lighting effect. But sometimes it's just not possible to properly light wildlife because of the candid nature of the shot.

[NV Whino]

2. I like number 2

Too much nest in number 1 and the focus on number 3 is too soft on the birds. 2 has the right amount of nest and wall to give context and I like the position of the birds better.

[Mira]

3. I second that opinion. Precious photo.

[Blue_In_AK]

4. I third that opinion. :)

[Richard D]

5. And I fourth it.

Sweet creatures.

[ConsAreLiars]

6. A 5th vote for #2

The nearly achromatic hues are very striking, and the peepers and composition are utterly stunning and unique. Not sure what contest category it might be an entry in, but if it didn't win, unless some photo superstars entered, I'd be surprised.