Lucky Praying Mantis
I spotted this brown praying mantis on the top of my mower catcher after cutting my lawn. He was covered in fine dust. He seemed to be cleaning himself, his fr...
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I spotted this brown praying mantis on the top of my mower catcher after cutting my lawn. He was covered in fine dust. He seemed to be cleaning himself, his front legs pawing his head much like a cat would do. I took him over to a nearby tree. and he carried on with his morning ablutions, occasionally swiveling his head to look at me :))
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Aug, 2016Views
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Awards
Chatter Award
Zenith Award
Contest Finalist in Miniature Worlds Photo Contest
Member Selection Award
Featured
Contest Finalist in Insects And Critters Photo Contest
Peer Award
Superb Composition
Absolute Masterpiece
Top Choice
Outstanding Creativity
Magnificent Capture
Superior Skill
All Star
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Same photographer See allBehind The Lens
Behind The Lens
Location
Early one fine summer morning I had just finished mowing my lawn - so boring - when I suddenly spotted this praying mantis. He was sitting quietly on top of the mower, looking at me, he seemed to be very confused and he was very dusty! I carefully carried him to the safety of a nearby tree and quickly ran inside for my camera, praying (excuse the pun) that he would still be there when I returned.Time
It was the perfect time of day - 8 am, not too bright, not too dark. Here in Australia it is usually much too bright in the middle of the day to take photographs outside.Lighting
There are many reasons a photograph may be judged 'good or bad'. It can depend on the focus, composition or the lighting for instance. In this case the lighting was perfect, early in the morning, with the light coming from behind, in the shade of a tree, I needed no more.Equipment
Of course, it is always best to use a tripod, unfortunately I did not have time to use one here. However, the focus is pretty good. I used a Canon EOS 60D here, with a 100 mm lens, no flash.Inspiration
Insects of all shapes and sizes fascinate me. This little praying mantis was so vulnerable, he was so lucky that I found him amongst the dust and grass. I love to record such wonderful moments so that I can keep them in my heart forever.Editing
Post processing just involved increasing the contrast and saturation slightly.In my camera bag
Being an amateur my camera equipment is quite basic. I would love to have all the latest equipment and gadgets. I am building up slowly but for now I rely on my Canon 60D and three lenses. A 100 mm macro lens, a 55-250 mm and 18-55 mm lensFeedback
Photography can be as complex or as simple as you make it. You may have the choice to search the world for incredible scenes and subjects. OR you can survey the area around you. The best shots reveal themselves in the unexpected.
