Busy bugs.
A pair of Brassica Bugs (which are shield bugs). One of each colour variant on Chamomile.
A pair of Brassica Bugs (which are shield bugs). One of each colour variant on Chamomile.
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Jun, 2014Views
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Behind The Lens
Location
I took this photo just out on our daily dog walk in open countryside, leading to a small area of brush and woodland very close to our home. I always take my kit as we are very lucky to have a huge plethora of different insects in that small area, it's like a small goldmine of 6 and 8 legged creatures. Some of the land there has been given up for building but a good sized area has been left for the community, to be undisturbed.Time
I think this was late afternoon from what I remember. It had been a full on day and almost didn't take my kit , as I had 3 dogs with me at the time.Lighting
I always use totally natural light, so take various shots (when possible) to try and get the best combination. Some beasties are just too fast moving!Equipment
I am currently using a canon 50D, second hand as is all my kit. A 100mm macro lens and 99% of the time, free hand, no tripod and breathing control to try and keep as steady as possible. Luckily, there was no breeze at the time, the elements usually dictate how successful no tripod and macro will be.Inspiration
I am constantly in awe of the sheer variety, colours and forms of some of our tiniest creatures here in the UK. The farmer had planted a border of chamomile around 2 of his fields, it seemed to attract a lot of shield beetles and native ladybirds this year, which is fabulous to see.Editing
No editing as such, just a crop.In my camera bag
I take just about everything I can in a rather useful rucksack. All lenses, from Macro, fisheye, 70/300mm, 50mm, and the totally indispensable kit lens my old faithful 18/55mm, all Canon equipment. I also include a shutter release, bean bag and a handmade, wooden fairy door for those special fungi shots in the woods. I recently aquired a ring flash, still getting the hang of that piece of kit!Feedback
Always LOOK, look for movement, changes of colour or texture in the surrounding flora. I normally walk, with my eyes just scanning the surrounding area to pick up anything different. Check what kinds of insects you might expect to see in the area you are in. Local wildlife trust pages, nature blogs etc. See what specific creatures like to eat or lay their eggs on. All depending on if you are looking for something specific, or like me, just total pot luck most of the time.
