Howdy,
Despite working long hours and overtime this week, I managed to get out to the garden and even the state park for a little macro photography. The dragonflies have been particularly good models, allowing me to even get up to the closest focusing distance in some cases. It's hard to focus that close. Even the slightest breeze throws everything off, and my lens isn't stabilized.
The Canon RP makes it a lot easier than it was with the old 7D, though. Canon has just released two new cameras with in-body stabilization, but they're more geared toward video shooting. I'm holding out for the rumored high resolution stills camera that is supposed to come out next year.
Anyway, back to the dragon flies...
There are at least two species that call the garden their home, this year. One is black with red markings and red banded wings. The other is yellow. Both seem to have the "jewel" marking on the leading edge of their wings, near the tips.
They really are quite stunning to see close-up. The tight crop in the first image makes him look like a grizzled old chap.
Of course, it's not all dragonflies. The state park had a lot of those, too, but they were much less cooperative than the ones in the garden. It might have had something to do with my needing to swat away the mosquitos. Still, you would think they would have appreciated their supper coming delivery.
The last photo may have cost me a pint of blood. Mosquitos have some demonic ability to sense when you're trying to take a photo and unable to swat them. If anyone knows where I can get a dozen trained tree frogs to stick on my neck, I would be very appreciative!
It's officially the weekend, now, and I intend to enjoy it. Next stop: beer!
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