b's mating z
Mating bees
Mating bees
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Jul, 2014Views
1245
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Awards
Winner in Bees and Flowers Photo Challenge
Magnificent Capture
Absolute Masterpiece
Top Choice
Peer Award
Superb Composition
Superior Skill
All Star
Outstanding Creativity
Virtuoso
Emotions
Impressed
Happy
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Same photographer See allBehind The Lens
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Behind The Lens
Location
This photo was taken in my backyard.Time
The photo was taken around 11:00 in the morning. I was walking around looking at my wife's flower beds and noticed something different on a flower about 15ft. away. Slowly went over and took a closer look and saw something I hadn't seen before, bees mating. My camera had a 105 macro lens on it, so I was prepared for close-ups and macro. Started photographing a little distance away and worked in, hoping not to disturb them. They were busy and seemed to ignore me. This was, in my opinion, the best shot.Lighting
For close ups and macro, I have 2 flashes, Nikon R1, attached to the front of the lens. Depending on aperture, I choose, it will either be fill flash or the dominate light; as in this case.Equipment
This photo was taken with a Nikon D300, equipped with a 105 macro lens and 32mm extension tube. 2 flashes were attached to the front of the lens. The aperture was F32 for depth of field. The equipment was had held.Inspiration
Most of my photography is taken in my own yard or nearby. Generally, I take the time to look close at things; hoping to see something different, as in this case. When working with small insects, etc., I start photographing at a distance, to at least have an ID photo before working in. Of course, It depends on the subject, how close I can get.Editing
Usually, I do some processing on all of my photos. The biggest thing is cropping. I, also, sharpen, increase contrast, and take out any blaring flaws that are distractions.In my camera bag
Since most of my photography is near my home, I carry very little. When I have a bag; it has extra batteries, lens brush, and a set of extension tubes. I, also, carry a knee pad for getting down to low subjects and a small spray bottle for misting leaves and flowers.Feedback
When shooting insects, try to look ahead for subjects before you scare them away. When they are feeding, mating, etc., they are often more easily approached. On some subjects, like dragonflies, they seem mesmerized by flash and let you get very close.
