My First Bug

[kdoc856]

Never photographed a bug before, and am not even sure what makes a good bug shot. But here's my first, (and maybe my last?) Handheld, with 80-200 2.8. Thanks for any c&c. better in lytebox

1/500 at f/5.6 120mm ISO 320

[Geoff F]

Usually, but not always, Kevin, a good bug shot requires plenty of focus depth. Which means a smaller aperture (like F11 or F14) and reducing the shutter speed to compensate, subject to Iso settings.

But don't have too low a shutter speed so camera shake or subject movement (wind rock etc) becomes a problem. Say something around 1/200.

However, we are now, ideally, talking about a tripod, or at least a monopod, to help with sharpness.

Then comes composition. For me, it is a conscious decision between a flower, plus bug, or a bug with a flower background. So in this particular case I would crop closer.

Bug photography is certainly challenging, but also fascinating. There is a rather steep learning curve but a rewarding one.

Do keep experimenting with bugs, but the danger is that once you get interested in macro photography it soon becomes expensive.

[kdoc856]

Thaks, Geoff

I confess this was an "accidental" shot- I went out with marching orders from my wife to get a pic of whatever that plant is, and the bee dropped by. Was pretty windy, hence the high ISO, f stop and shutter speed. I see what you are saying about the conscious decision regarding featuring the bug, flower or both- the above is the result of no decision being made at all. Thanks for the feedback, Geof.

Kevin

[wlou]

Ok, Wow, because you said first shot. The "bug" appear extremely focus, clear, to me. I took many, many shots before I got one this focus! Happy clicking!

[Andrew1]

This is a great shot Kevin. Very crisp. I can't hand-hold on a horse let alone a bug. Good background colours for the bee as well.

[kdoc856]

Thanks, Louise and Andrew. I appreciate the encouragement, and may yet chase some more bugs, and possibly learn the names of more than 2 or 3 insects and flowers- that's about my entire repertoire at present