garyrhook
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Behind The Lens
Location
This is an example of finding interesting things in the backyard. I live in central Texas, where the growing season is March to May. I have to get out in the spring if I'm going to enjoy growing things and decent weather. This little guy (girl?) was on a daylily leaf next to my patio.Time
This image was captured mid-afternoon while trying out some new tubes with my macro lens.Lighting
This would have been a somewhat cloudy day, as I'm not fond of direct, mid-afternoon Texas sunlight. So no need for a reflector or shade, or speedlite. Cloudy days are the best! Diffuse light, and less chance for sunburns.Equipment
Nikon D5100, 105mm macro, extension tubes, handheld. No flash, no tripod. Just worked the manual focus on the lens and slowly moved around taking photos of this beetle. Fortunately, lady bugs (ladybirds) aren't bothered by humans, so it didn't try to run away, even while it didn't stay still.Inspiration
Primarily wanted to try out my new tubes, so I went outside and immediately spotted this against the green. A perfect subject, so the trick was to move into a position that provided an interesting perspective, then get something in focus (because the DoF was extremely shallow).Editing
I've revisited this image a few times, as it's one of my favorite insect photos. I use LR for primary processing, but nothing unusual here. I did push the sharpening a bit further than I normally might, as I wanted the in-focus parts to really draw the eye. Also, the angle and framing are as-taken, which I think adds to the composition; I don't know that I would have been this creative on my own. Finally, I left things alone and relied on the color scheme and bokeh to do their part. I don't think I used Photoshop at all for this version, as I don't think it was needed.In my camera bag
Typically, my trusty Tamron 28-75 f/2.8 lens, a Velvet 85 (portrait, macro, and odd), perhaps a longer lens like a 70-200 or a 135, along with my D850. I'll add other things depending upon what I'm doing and what I think I might need. My carry-around bag has a D750, a 35mm, and either my 24-120 or my 135. I don't keep a speedlite handy (I rarely use one), and tripods are special, intentional equipment most of the time.Feedback
Tubes are a great way to expand the function of a lens, and they're not expensive. They can be used on almost any lens (I've used mine on my 70-200) therefore perfect for experimentation, and taking that close-up view of the world. Then go find a garden and take the time to really explore. Bugs and growing things are loads of fun, and a never-ending source of opportunity.