Damsels I've known

[Jon Ruyle]

Thanks, Don. You're right, more dof would have been better. I would have lost a little sharpness in the head, but it would have been worth it.


Live and learn, hopefully.

[Don Burkett]

Thanks, Don. You're right, more dof would have been better. I would have lost a little sharpness in the head, but it would have been worth it.


Live and learn, hopefully.
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The 100mm f/2.8 can hold sharpness well beyond f/10. I don't know about your model camera, but if this shot is full frame, you could easily get beyond f/18 without visible impact on sharpness. Even if your frame was a 100% crop I think you've got more topside on the aperture scale. Probably, f/14 or f/16 would have nailed this for you. BTW, just my thoughts, not a mathematical calculation.

[Dann Thombs]

Hey these are some great shots. I'll second your methods too. Insects are tricky, but once you know the secrets, it's not so bad.

[Don Burkett]

So, here's one more of 'The Fly'. I hope you enjoy. Again, I encourage everyone to join in.


Same tech's as the fly above

[MrGreenBug]

This is superb Don! I can't wait to get myself a macro lens and apply some of your tips and tricks!


Great detail on the fly's eyes and the water drop.


Wonderful!!!

[Dann Thombs]

Here's my additions to the Damselfly thread:






5D Mark II, EF 180mm f/3.5 Macro, 1/320, f/3.5, ISO320, -1/3EV, handheld






40D, MP-E 65mm @ 1:1, 1/250, f/10, ISO100, flash w/MT-24EX, handheld






5D Mark II, EF 180mm f/3.5 Macro, 1/160, f/7.1, ISO800, handheld



40D, EF 180mm f/3.5 Macro, 1/1250, f/3.5, ISO200, handheld

[Don Burkett]

Well Done, I like them all and I think I like them in the order you have them ranked. Although, #1 and #2 are interchangable. Really like the color blend of #2.

[Dann Thombs]

#2 was a lucky shot I usually use the 180mm for distance, but I only had the MP-E,so 4" was all I had to work with.

[Alan]

Well, obviously, both Don and Dann are pros at this.


I rarely see these beauties around.


So, where is a good place to start to capture these bugs? What kind of flora do they like resting on?


Where I live, the mosquito is prevalent, and they always seem to come to me, instead of the other way around!

[Dann Thombs]

Large open feels seem best for the Bluets and Forktails. Spreadwings I found like the edges of forests areas. They're not easy to spot. Just a bluish line that floats around. Some call them sewing needles. Not far from the truth.