Leapfrog?

This image shows a common Black Ant (approx 3mm in length) trying to encourage an aphid on a rose bush to secrete some honeydew (the aphids secrete honeydew for the ants to eat and in return the ants help protect the aphids from predators). The ant was repeatedly stroking the aphid from the rear with its antennae to no avail and eventually resorted to partially standing on the aphid as seen here. The ant left empty-handed after a few seconds and moved on to another aphid.

Canon 60D with MPE-65mm macro lens and heavily diffused MT-24EX flashgun, f13, 1/160, ISO 100, handheld. The background is a rose leaf.

All C+C welcomed.

Matt

Good macro stuff as to be expected.
JR

Even with the extreme close up you have still handled depth of field very well. Excellent work.

David

Wonderfull as ever

Matt

This really is superb. I can't wait to get back out there. I find your work inspirational.

Oh yes, stupendous.

3mm ant, how in goodness sake did you even see the little fella? Very sharp for handheld even at 1/160 sec with such a small subject and love the behavioural aspect of the image. Like Barry as a Macro shooter I am inspired by your images. Now..... where's that massive magnifying glass?!!

Nick.

Superb behavioural shot Matt. And handheld, oh my! I've just scratched out the 200-400 on my Santas list for the MPE-65!!

Bravo!

Great details and really interesting interaction. Thought a lot about getting the MPE-65 in the past, but never convinced myself that I wouldn't just get distracted by the nearest bird!

Dave

Superb 2D behavioural macro image. All that is lacking is the third dimension. Excellent control of diffused flash.

Another brilliant image and made so much more interesting by the behavioural explanantion.

thanks very much for the comments

Matt

An amazing macro shot! I enjoyed the notes very much too.

Beautifully done Matt, as usual an excellent job, well lit and capturing the behaviour really well