I had never tried using my 75-300mm lens for macro work until last year. I've owned one since 2008 or so, but only tried using it for far-off subjects. Last summer, I began trying it out for macro work. It's not the best, but it gives me something to work with. I also managed to obtain a 60mm f/2.8 macro, and this is one of my earliest captures on it. At the time, I had a less than complete knowledge of apertures and depth of field. I've learned a lot since then. However, I feel like this shot really came out as a quality composition. The bokeh was excellent. The sharpness of the honeybee and the foreground flower. I am totally satisfied with this. I was not so satisfied with my hands and knees, though. This flower was just off a path paved with some kind of glued-together pebbles, and it hurts to sit in it.
This is one of my favorite pictures I've taken. I would like to retake it with newer gear and more knowledge, but despite the limitations, I feel it came out nicely. I took this, along with around 40 failed versions of it, at Ripley's Aquarium in South Carolina. Between all of the attempted exposures, this is the only one that actually came out like I wanted it to. A customer once bought one in 20"x30". I admit some jealousy, as I've never seen it printed above 10"x15". Awards and Recognition: Wake Med Reflections Gallery - July 2014 through October 2014 roguemark Gallery October 2014
A dragonfly prepares for takeoff between flights. He makes sure that all fuel lines are disconnected, landing gear is prepped, and wings are warmed up. Once he's ready, or when he spots prey, he'll take off with a dizzying blast of movement, setting forth like a bullet fired from a gun.
