Here the background not only is distracting but makes it difficult to see the subject. Pros use a telephoto lens with a wide open aperture to throw the background out of focus. Although many viewers may get a laugh out of the illusion, Uncle Bob may not appreciate the humor. Also, I personally have collected several photos of my feet and the open sky by having my finger on the trigger before I was ready to shoot. My favorite goof-up story involves a great blue heron.
Herons are much more difficult to approach than an egret is.
One day, at a wildlife refuge, I had my tripod set up with a 300mm lens. I spotted a fine great blue in some reeds and made a few preliminary shots from a great distance, because I wanted to be certain to capture at least a shot or two before he took off. Holding my breath, I approached a few more steps, set down the tripod, and took more shots. I continued to stealthily close the gap between this huge bird and myself until only his head filled my viewfinder. Suddenly, a cold shiver ran up my spine.