First Bee
March pussy willows burst into bloom come April. When they blossom, early bees will come. This was my first bee sighting April 10, 2014 at Northwood Park in N...
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March pussy willows burst into bloom come April. When they blossom, early bees will come. This was my first bee sighting April 10, 2014 at Northwood Park in New Hope, MN
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Apr, 2014Views
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Staff Winter Selection 2015
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Superb Composition
Outstanding Creativity
Absolute Masterpiece
Peer Award
Genius
Exceptional Contrast
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Behind The Lens
Location
This was taken on one of my many photo walks at Northwood Park in New Hope, MN. Most of my photos have been taken here. Here I have learned to hone my craft, experiment with new camera settings and techniques, and observe nature and her behavior first-hand. I knew from earlier walks that these buds were about to burst. And if the flowers open, the bees will come. Even if the lake still is covered in ice.Time
This photo was taken April 10, 2014 at 3:58 in the afternoon.Lighting
I like to go to the park at different times, this was late enough in the afternoon to take advantage of angled natural light that brought out the detail of the fuzzy portion of the buds and hair on the bee.Equipment
Sony SLT-A77V, F5.6 ISO 100 speed 320. I used a monopod with no flash and manual focus. Lens: DT 16-50mm SSM. Creative style was standard with auto white balance.Inspiration
My love for capturing nature. She is in motion with changes happening fast, especially in spring. I knew there was a good chance I could find my first spring bee of the year.Editing
Some cropping and minimal processing.In my camera bag
I travel light. I have some weather protection and camera maintenance items in my bag. I might carry a second lens, but not always. I usually also carry a tripod/monopod.Feedback
Watch for the pussy willows to come out, and as these start to mature and overgrow, watch on a daily basis. When they start to bloom and open, the bees are there the same day or at most, a day later. Be aware that some of the early spring pollinators are NOT bees.
