The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.
Description
This is one of my favorite longhorned beetles because their late Summer appearance is a harbinger of Fall. Their boldly patterned yellow strips helps break up their outline when perched on goldenrod and provides a suggestive hint to a predator that they could be a stinging wasp. They feed on the nectar and pollen of goldenrod.
Specific Feedback
How do you like the comp on this one? I think that the beetle shows up well in the comp.
Technical Details
Z9 105mm f2.8 Micro + 1.4x TC , fill at -1.3ev (1/160 sec at f22, ISO 1600) Levels, DeNoise, Slight crop for comp, slight reduction in saturation of yellow.
Critique Template
Use of the template is optional, but it can help spark ideas.
Vision and Purpose:
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I do like the composition, Jim, though I think you could afford to take a hint off the top and right without the beetle feeling cramped. An interesting beetle. I don’t know if it gets out here but I’ll have to keep an eye out for it or its relatives.
What a fine image! I’m glad that you mentioned the natural history of the Locust Borer because it’s such a great example of mimicry. Not only does this animal look like stinging wasps and yellow jackets, it even releases a chemical that mimics their alarm pheromones.
I like the composition. For me, it suggests that the beetle is staring into unknown space from the safety of his perch. I know how anthropomorphic that is, but I can’t resist.
Jim: You are the interesting bug king. I love the details and colors. Like @Dennis_Plank a slightly tighter crop would suit me a tiny bit better. I also love your descriptions of your subjects. Contributes a lot to the knowledge base here. Most excellent. >=)>
Thank you @Dennis_Plank , @russ_carpenter , @Mark_Seaver , @Bill_Fach , and @Mike_Friel for the critiques. @Dennis_Plank , this beetle can be found in Eastern Washington wherever black locust trees have been planted. Some of the more spectacular members of this genus can be found in the prairie areas of North America.
I was shocked that this is considered a beetle, Jim, because of it’s colors I thought it was some sort of bee or wasp. Anyway, you did a fantastic job capturing this. Nice details in him.
