by Nikolai Whitebear
When beginning to practice insect photography it can feel frustrating when your photographs are not looking how you want. Insects are elusive beings, they’re tricky to see. When you finally find someone they’re gone in an instant! With this post, you’ll find helpful information that will have you better prepared for your next adventure out into the world! Follow these tips and your insect photography will surely improve!!
Location
Insects can truly be found in all types of environments. But you’ll have the best of luck photographing if go where the plants are. Flowering plants, like this Wild Geranium (Geranium maculatum), will often be highly populated with bees, butterflies, beetles, and many more! When you find plants, take your time when searching. Carefully lift every leaf, and look along each branch. You’ll be surprised at who may be right in front of your face!
Time of Day
The time of day has a huge influence on who you will see. Time also determines where the sun is in the sky which dramatically changes the lighting of your photos. Insects are most active when the sun is high in the sky which makes them tricky to photograph. My favorite time to be out is the early morning. They aren’t as active yet and the sun is just beginning its daily journey. Position yourself with your back to the sun and begin photographing any being you encounter. Shoot it just right and you’ll be gifted the most beautiful natural light you can imagine. Photographing at midday will result in harsh light and heavy shadows as you can see in the photo below.
Background
What exists behind your subject is just as important. A background filled with distraction draws attention away from your centerpiece. Do your best to compose your shots so that the background and subject complement each other. A pure blue sky offers endless beauty as a backdrop. As you advance with your photography you can begin to experiment! When I photograph moths I will use a car taillight or a colored piece of paper as a backdrop. Intense contrast catches so much more attention from your audience!
Wrapping Up!
The best way to improve your photography skills is to go outside as much as possible. When I first began photographing I was out almost every day for at least an hour. You’ll learn a lot about yourself. Take your time, there’s no rush. Let it calm you, it can become a mediative practice as well. We all need more time with our Mother Earth, she offers so much to learn. You just have to take the time to listen. Niáwa, and thank you!