Wasn't fully prepared for close up work today, so this is probably not the best that could be done, but had my 180 in the bag when walking round to check on the Grebes this morning. I came across a group of male Longhorn Moths performing their dance at the edge of some woodland.
These present a difficult problem for composition due to the length of their antenae, at least three to four times longer than the rest of the insect, decided here to concentrate on the wing patternation.
They're beautiful moths and a real sign of spring. I've never managed to get a shot with enough dof for their amazing antennae either. You've certainly managed to get the critical areas in focus and I like the radiating oof pattern in the bg that concentrates your attention onto the moth.
Not too sure with this one Phil.
I think you have done well considering the various issues associated with this sort of shot (subject size, DOF and distracting elements, etc) but I think the shine and highlights detract from the detail.
I can see the problem with composition Phil - what incredible antenae! However I can't see any way to improve on what you've already done - good effort!
Its hard work, having just got a macro lens on my nikon system its brought back all the horrors i had before. Good shot Phil, btw dont think i've seen them before its a new bug to me.
I think the angle of view and amount of depth of field works particularly well here.
The moth appears to have an almost gold metallic sheen to it,which shows well in this image.
Posted by Elliott Neep on May 29, 2006 at 12:41 PM
I know exactly what you had to deal with Phil. These are very common in my local woodlands and I had a go last week. But, by the time I had worked out a composition (with the ridiculously long antennae) the bug had flown. I think the leaves work well here as they, in effect, draw your eyes directly to the wings and not to the antennae... good or bad, this shot works for me!
Discussion
7 replies20D, 180/3.5, ISO200, 1/50 @ f8, Gitzo 500 + 393, C1pro + CS2.
Wasn't fully prepared for close up work today, so this is probably not the best that could be done, but had my 180 in the bag when walking round to check on the Grebes this morning. I came across a group of male Longhorn Moths performing their dance at the edge of some woodland.
These present a difficult problem for composition due to the length of their antenae, at least three to four times longer than the rest of the insect, decided here to concentrate on the wing patternation.
All the best
I think you have done well considering the various issues associated with this sort of shot (subject size, DOF and distracting elements, etc) but I think the shine and highlights detract from the detail.
Nice shot and nice try.
Dan
I think the angle of view and amount of depth of field works particularly well here.
The moth appears to have an almost gold metallic sheen to it,which shows well in this image.