Wetar Island Viper
Mar, 2015Views
601
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Awards
People's Choice in Snakes Photo Challenge
Top Choice
Superb Composition
Peer Award
Outstanding Creativity
Absolute Masterpiece
Superior Skill
Magnificent Capture
All Star
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Same photographer See allBehind The Lens
Behind The Lens
Location
This photo was taken at the Kentucky Reptile Zoo in Slade, Kentucky. The Wetar Island Viper in the photo is located in the Tropics building.Time
The snake and reptile displays are all inside, so time of day was not an issue.Lighting
The snakes are very difficult subjects to take photos of! The display lighting is centered directly in the middle of each display, so where the snake is in the display makes a huge difference. The reflections and glare on the glass from the lighting in the room can be difficult to work around. I've been known to use a flashlight to try to add lighting!Equipment
This photo was taken with a Nikon P520. I have no other equipment, no tripod, no additional lighting other than the flash on the camera and a flashlight, when I remember to bring it!Inspiration
I love taking photos of the snakes at the Kentucky Reptile Zoo! They are such amazing creatures and the diversity of species of snakes on display at the Zoo makes it easy to spend hours taking photos. It is incredible to be inches from an animal that could literally kill you in minutes with one bite, but these animals are used for venom extraction - the venom from these animals is used to make antivenom and is also used in pharmaceutical and medical research. So, not only is the animal in front of you capable of causing great harm, it may be the animal that contributes the venom that is used to make the antivenom which can saves someone's life, or the basis of a medicine used to treat a serious illness.Editing
Very little. I have only a free photo editor I use, with the very basic adjustments available.In my camera bag
Since I don't have any extra equipment and my camera does not have interchangeable lenses, usually the only thing I might have is lens cleaner and a cloth in my pocket. Talk about packing light!Feedback
In an enclosed building such as where this snake is displayed, I would love to have a tripod, some additional lighting and a way to block the glare on the glass of the display. Patience and time are absolutely required. The snakes are not something to be posed to get the photo! A good photo editor would be helpful as well.
