Went back and got the dragonfly even sharper

[art frames]

Having had such a good session two days ago at Salcey Forest I went back and managed to improve on the sharpness of the southern Hawker dragonfly plus took a few close-ups. You can compare it with the other one here [go to previous]

Whilst there I met another naturalist and we got chatting. I now know where to go in the wood to find some very exciting wildlife - not butterflies - but lizards and slow worms. He showed me his pictures that he had just been taking on his fuji. Very nice pics.

So here are two of my set.





thanks for the encouragement,

Peter

[theMusicMan]

Re: Went back and got the dragonfly even sharper

Freeking heck... that's 'Beijing Gold' material is that Peter... awseome images, these are spectacular. Superb even DoF on the dragon in #1, and incredible detail in #2.

Mucho clappa clappa...

No EXIF though... which lens did you use for these two?

[art frames]

Re: Went back and got the dragonfly even sharper

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No EXIF though... which lens did you use for these two?

John

sorry about the exif, not sure what happened, it was 1/320, F9, ISO 400. Sigma 105 + EC1.4 making a 148mm total macro setup. It is a great setup with only a ring flash to yearn for.

I would love to be able to get maximum DOF. It is the constant battle with macro. Soft flash might help.

thanks

Peter

[Graham_of_Rainham]

Re: Went back and got the dragonfly even sharper

Brilliant

[shirley]

Re: Went back and got the dragonfly even sharper

Both brilliant, but I particularly like the first one. you have really captured the delicate wings so well.

[andym]

Re: Went back and got the dragonfly even sharper

What can I say

Well done

[Fluffy]

Re: Went back and got the dragonfly even sharper

OMG

World class

Steve

[Zuiko]

Re: Went back and got the dragonfly even sharper

Fantastic shots that re-define "sharpness," they just leap off the screen! If the Judge touches these he'll cut himself!

Bask in your triumph!

[art frames]

Re: Went back and got the dragonfly even sharper

Thank you everyone. The Sigma lens should take most credit it is very fine. I am learning how to get the best I can from it. The main thing is to take a bit more time and take a few shots as the DOF is tight. The shift of the focal plane makes some appear sharper than others. It always surprises me which ones work best when you get home.

Finally, on judging - I am the harshest judge of myself, I have no need of anything more than an 'are you sure?' from someone I trust to get me to reshoot or repaint. Working as a commercial artist I have been used to exacting standards and real professionalism. Everyone aims to do their best work and it is promoted by support, insight and a meeting of minds.

I have one or two other things from yesterday to post later. Thank you for all of this encouragement.

Peter

[ScubaRoy]

Re: Went back and got the dragonfly even sharper

Lovely sharp pictures. I keep meaning to visit Salcey forest and if it is nice tomorrow I may even take a drive out there.

Roy

[art frames]

Re: Went back and got the dragonfly even sharper

Lovely sharp pictures. I keep meaning to visit Salcey forest and if it is nice tomorrow I may even take a drive out there.

Roy

Roy

Much of Salcey isn't great the location I'd suggest on here should be marked as a blue shape...

http://maps.google.co.uk/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&t=h&msa=0&msid=116199148620459494889.00045539438b37cc9d6da&ll=52.148372,-0.840135&spn=0.000792,0.002106&z=20

unless you want to go on the public paths and the treetop walk in which case join the crowds but watch the parking charges as you can park for free nearby.

Peter