Dec, 2015
Same photographer See allBehind The Lens
Behind The Lens
Location
This photograph was taken at one of my local nature reserves (RSPB Fairburn Ings Nature Reserve, Yorkshire, UK) and was spotted at rest just next to the path. Red-tipped Clearwing moths are an uncommon sight at the best of times, but to have one sitting at an easy to photograph level is a rare opportunity, which I couldn't miss. Often the only time you get to see these and other moths in the same family is with the use of pheromone lures.Time
It was taken in the morning just after sunrise, though I think the sun was slow to show on this particular day. The moth will have been warming up, getting ready for flight.Lighting
I used a macro flash light, as I nearly always do with my insect work.Equipment
I believe that this was taken with my Sigma 180mm macro lens which focuses at a distance of around 12" or 300mm.Inspiration
These moths are very uncommon, so I couldn't pass up such an opportunity.Editing
The main thing for me is to sharpen the image, as RAW files are not sharpened by default. I probably tweaked the levels and removed a couple of dust spots from the image which were recorded from the lens or sensor. No matter how careful you are with the gear, they seem to persist.In my camera bag
As much kit as I can carry. Spare lenses, batteries, memory cards. I always carry the extenders and extension tubes, because you never know what you might spot.Feedback
Take record shot photos from a little further away prior to an attempt to getting up really close. At least then you can prove you spotted that species. Often people don't believe you without some proof.
