Ahhh.... what a great thing to see the hummingbirds, butterflies, etc. flying about the garden. That hard freeze that hit the US several weeks ago killed over 80% of the buds and leaves on our trees - it's strange with green grass and warmer weather, but no leaves...

How is everybody? I've been away traveling a lot (I do a lot of bicycle race stuff), so I've been out of touch, and hadn't taken any photos for almost a month. BTW, you may see my ugly mug on Versus (formerly the Outdoor Life Network) tonight... I'm doing time board duties on the motorcycle for the Tour de Georgia.

Regardless, here's one of my first butterfly images for the year - he was most accommodating...

Taken at F/11, 1/180 sec., 200mm, ISO 100. This image is about 25% of actual size, cropped some for better composition. Shot hand held, in that horribly soft JPEG:


This is a REALLY nice flashgun, no question. Perhaps I need to read the other 90 pages of the manual...

I taught a macro class last Thursday, and it was an excellent time. I am leading a field trip on May 19th, and teaching another macro class at the Photographic Symposium next weekend.

Cheers,
Marc

[Marc Langille]

Yes that is helpful, thanks. I've got a Manfrotto macro flash bracket, which lets you mount a flash to the left & right of the camera. It's quite handy with the wireless flashes, although you get some strange looks from people when walking around with it.

I may have to consider that one. I have a Stroboframe folding bracket, but I may consider a more dedicated unit. The folding one is fantastic for road trips, etc.

Cheers,
Marc

[tranq78]

I may have to consider that one. I have a Stroboframe folding bracket, but I may consider a more dedicated unit. The folding one is fantastic for road trips, etc.

Cheers,
Marc

Marc, the macro flash bracket is the Manfrotto #390. I don't know if it is still being made or if there is an updated model. It is quite small and you can fold it up into a very compact size for transporting.

I could have gone into a workshop and borrowed a press to make a small macro bracket but the price of the #390 was less than it would have cost me. Plus the ability to mount dual flashes is quite handy. Plus I don't know anyone with a machine shop.

[Bud]

Wow, Mark... that's great! I love the colors and details, and, yes, it's nice to feel like spring is finally here.
I've been bitten by the macro bug... just haven't invested in a lens yet.

Thanks for sharing the shot and I look forward to seeing more.

[photo_mom]

Hi Marc!

Been missing your elk!

I think it's really neat how butterfly eyes can sometimes give that hexagonal/octagonal highlight. Great capture. Bet you're kind of happy with this first macro of the year!

[Marc Langille]

Wow, Mark... that's great! I love the colors and details, and, yes, it's nice to feel like spring is finally here.
I've been bitten by the macro bug... just haven't invested in a lens yet.

Thanks for sharing the shot and I look forward to seeing more.

I appreciate the comments good sir...

Ask and ye shall receive... see below.

Hi Marc!

Been missing your elk!

I think it's really neat how butterfly eyes can sometimes give that hexagonal/octagonal highlight. Great capture. Bet you're kind of happy with this first macro of the year!

Tracy!

What's up with you good lady??

I promise (as indicated earlier in this post) that my cabin retreat at the end of May will hopefully reap some rewards, if those Elk behave...

I'll post a new image in a new thread - I have others, just haven't gotten around to them yet.

Cheers,
Marc