tanya_c_smith

crab

Canon EOS DIGITAL REBEL XT

settings

Aperture 56/10 ISO 250 Shutter 1/500 Focal Length 51/1

upload_date

Jun, 2016

Views

102

Likes

Awards

Summer 2020

Superb Composition

Top Choice

Absolute Masterpiece

Outstanding Creativity

Peer Award

All Star

Behind The Lens

Location

I took this photo on a photo journey in Crescent City, California. My friend and I had taken a random journey with just us and our cameras and we traveled along Route 101 on the west coast. The crabs were migrating, and I happened to come along this straggler. It was posed so I grabbed my macro lens and was able to catch the details before it disappeared into the Pacific Ocean.

Time

It was late morning the first week of April. My friend and I were out exploring the beaches, the sun was out creating the perfect lighting and we saw the crabs moving from the beach into the ocean. The wind was slightly blowing, so it wasn't unbearable, and it was during school hours, so the beaches weren't crowded.

Lighting

In April, the angle of the sun isn't directly overhead. This allowed the sun to shine on the crab's shell in a way that the iridescence was able to show off its colors in spectacular fashion.

Equipment

I used a Canon Ti50, with an 18-500mm lens with macro capabilities. When out on journies, I try to keep my load light, which enables me to move quickly and capture photos like this.

Inspiration

What inspired me to take this photo was the individuality of the creature. No two crabs are colored the same. Its unique color, the position of the crab, and the way it posed itself, it was an opportunity I couldn't pass up.

Editing

I did very little post-processing. I used Adobe Lightroom, adjusted the white balance, and brightened the colors just a bit.

In my camera bag

Normally I don't carry equipment with me. I have my camera, 2 lenses, and my UV filter.

Feedback

My advice would be to not overthink the shot. Maneuver your angle, try different positions. Don't be afraid to take chances, and don't be afraid to try to take photos outside of your element.

See more amazing photos, follow tanya_c_smith

tanya_c_smith

tanya_c_smith

crab

Behind The Lens

See more amazing photos, follow tanya_c_smith

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