Yes, a shallow notch (or scarf as you Aussies say) on the top side of the limb woud have been prefered.
Then the undercut could be made.
Then after the hinge is established the arborist could clip his saw to his saddle and prepare for a sudden escape while the limb is being lifted.
The crane operator could then gently lift the limb.
Key: If the notch was just right, then the whole "pick" would be smooth without the sawyer having to get the saw out again to cut once again to release the limb.
Thanks Eric for keeping that photo anonymous; it was a professional decision.
