Owls are so elusive (and nocturnal) that getting a decent shot of one is a real thrill. In the avian photography universe, it seems like there are two distinct types of shots: those for help with ID, and those that are for artistic ends. Most of us seem to end up with the former--a shot of a cool owl in a tree. Among attributes that separates each type of shot I believe is clean framing and perspective. While this owl is captured in its environment, there are branches that interfere. Also the background is very detailed. And the perspective is that of looking up at the bird, which kinda brings an ID-to-snapshot feel.
So, for an owl ID shot this is quite nice, and I'd be happy to take it too.
For more artistic shots, I'd suggest you check out the
Avian Gallery of the Nature Photographer's Network. A lot of those very fine shots have a more level perspective. The backgrounds are less complicated too. And many shoot with f2.8 300-400mm glass, at larger apertures. But getting that perspective takes a lot of preparation, including climbing trees prior to dawn.
M