PRO

marcobertazzoni

Toad

NIKON D700

settings

Aperture f/3.2 ISO 200 Shutter 1/250

upload_date

Sep, 2013

Views

1273

Likes

+100

Awards

Contest Finalist in Can You See Me Photo Contest

People's Choice in Camouflage in nature (animals or people) Photo Challenge

Peer Award

+18

Superb Composition

Top Choice

Absolute Masterpiece

Magnificent Capture

Superior Skill

All Star

Outstanding Creativity

Top Ranks

Top 10 rank

Top 10 rank week 2

Behind The Lens

Location

I took this pic outside in my ranch in Texas. Some dirt works were going on near a barn and this big toad had the nice idea to camouflage in the soft sandy soil.

Time

It was late morning, in a cloudy day of early October.

Lighting

I remember it was a cloudy day, so the light wasn't that bright how normally is in that time of the year in North Texas. Perfect light for outdoor photography all day long I would say.

Equipment

I used a Nikon D700 and the Nikon 70-200mm f2,8 VR II with an UV Filter.

Inspiration

It was really interesting and unique how this giant toad was peacefully camouflaging himself in the soft sandy soil. I took several pictures from different angles, but this frontal one (I shot laying down on the ground) for sure is the best one.

Editing

I normally don't spend to much time in post-processing, I'd rather stay outside shooting pictures than staying home in front of my Mac. I'm really happy with RAW files and I just use Adobe Camera Raw to control contrast and colors, nothing more. An excess of PS will let the photo loose its real origin.

In my camera bag

I do have several cameras and lenses, so it depends by the subjects I'm going to shoot or the trip. Basically I'm using a Nikon D3 S with the 70-200mm f2,8 VR II and the D810 with the 24-70mm f2,8. I always carry different type of filters, a wireless shutter release and extra batteries. I love focusing with Live View, but this is killing my batteries, especially in cold weather. I normally carry a Manfrotto 055CX PRO4 carbon fiber tripod with an Acratech Headball.

Feedback

Outdoor Macro Photography will force you to spend some time in the nature, looking for subjects such as flowers, insects and small creatures like this toad. You might not find what you are looking for, but in my opinion is never wasted time when you are in contact with nature.

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marcobertazzoni

marcobertazzoni

Toad

Behind The Lens

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