Bugging Out (Original Macro Photography)

The bugs are out in force, now that the summer is nearing its end. On fifteen-minute work breaks (working from home), I usually head out to the zinnias and milkweed along the side of the driveway to see which little model is ready for a photo shoot. One can only guess what the neighbors think of a guy hiding in the flowers with a camera... but who cares?

^{Haouling Bugg Bottom}

The humble ant. Well, these guys are all over, but getting a photo of one with such a shallow depth of field is a bit tricky. They don't stand still long, either, which is why this one's a bit of an action shot!

^Fuzzy-Eyes

Trying to understand the flight paths of butterflies is already confusing. How does something that can't even fly straight manage to land on target every time? It just doesn't make sence. And then... Then, you realize they have furry eyes. How do these things even survive?! Maybe they use their antennae as radar?

^{Don't worry. Be hoppy!}

The best subject I've encountered in awhile was this katydid, or bush grasshopper. Awww, look at that face!

^{So Handsome!}

And those eyes... The mottled green eyes they have are really quite spectacular close-up. Katydids move pretty slowly, unless they decide to jump. Those back legs can launch them quite a ways. So, don't scare the subject or he's out of there and finding him will be close to impossible.

^{Buzzz Chikka Wuzz Wuzzz}

Trident beetles or Japanese beetles are invasive tree-killing vermin, but they do look pretty cool. They are perfectly capable of defoliating entire trees in a matter of days and have wreaked havoc on the local flora. They also tend to hang out and make baby beetles in plain sight. Maybe they should be renamed to Exhibitionist beetles.

^{It DOES come in pints!}

And lastly,, not a bug, because I wanted to draw attention to something else. There is a giveaway for a Canon EOS R5 camera. In addition to having a chance to win, your entry increases my chances. If you would like to enter, here is the link:

Canon EOS R5 Giveaway

Thank you for taking a look! If you enjoy my work, please click the upvote button. Comments are also greatly appreciated.