Snap!
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina), attempting to nip my camera-finger. Ohio, USA
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina), attempting to nip my camera-finger. Ohio, USA
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Mar, 2015Views
401
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Awards
People's Choice in Turtles, Tortoises, and Terrapins Photo Challenge
People's Choice in Wierd And Wonderful Muck Diving Creatures Photo Challenge
Peer Award
Top Choice
All Star
Magnificent Capture
Absolute Masterpiece
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Behind The Lens
Location
I took this photo near Dayton, Ohio, in a drainage ditch.Time
I found the turtle in the late afternoon, around 5-6 pm I believe.Lighting
Fortunately for me, it was a sunny day, so the light was able to cut through the murky water without the shot turning out too dark.Equipment
My Ricoh WG-4 underwater camera and my bare hands.Inspiration
I love talking pictures of reptiles, and I really wanted to get one of a snapping turtle in its natural habitat. So when I spotted one in the shallow drainage ditch, I had to try for it. So, I jumped in, grabbed the 14" turtle by the tail with one hand, and snapped a few pictures with the other. The result was surprisingly good, and I managed to keep all of my fingers intact (always a good thing :P)Editing
No post processing was done to this photo.In my camera bag
Generally, my Canon 40d, and a variety of lenses (covering 18-250mm normally)Feedback
When trying to get pictures of potentially dangerous wildlife, it is important to study the habits and temperament of each species, as well as research the best handling methods. Also, having your camera gear set up beforehand is important so that you don't miss out on anything if you come across something early on. For snapping turtles in particular, if you hold them by the base of the tail (a la "turtle man"), you can keep the animal under control without placing your digits near its mouth. Also, one thing I do before and during my searches for animals is pray to the Lord and ask Him to bless me with cool animals and sights.
