Christmas Presents, Christmas Babies


Christmas Presents


Baby 2

Critique Style Requested: Standard

The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.

Description

We had two really strong thunderstorms yesterday afternoon and night with some clearing during the day. I went out to look at the garden and was shooting some succulents and cacti. Chrissy was doing some tidying up of the minor storm damage and took the trash to the garbage bucket on the patio. She noticed three newly hatched Monarchs, probably kids from the mom I posted a few days ago. We found a couple of the chrysalises which looked like open Christmas presents although not quite as colorful. I couldn’t get all three of them in the same frame as they were crawling all over this passion vine but a couple of them were close enough for a family portrait. Doesn’t it seem there’s always one who won’t cooperate. These are pretty much full frame as I was able to position the tripod and camera parallel to the wings. The lead image was shot at ISO 100 as she was still enough to allow the long SS. The detail in the full size file is incredible and is perhaps the best Monarch image I’ve made in some time if ever. The BG is a little busy but I don’t think it detracts like the brick wall in the last two shots. I think a large print is in the offing.

Specific Feedback

Both of these little gals were very cooperative and still dropping a bit of wing inflation fluid. The wings were not quite hard enough for them to fly and the sun was gone for the day. Temperatures are supposed to be in the high 60s tomorrow but there is an 85% chance of rain. Hoping they survive and thrive. Time to head south for Mexico.

Technical Details

Sony A7rIII
Sony FE 70-200 f2.8 GM-II, 2xTC


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Wow, the thought of ANY butterflies in December is just weird, but I’m glad you had a bonus gift. Brought a little smile to my face. Thanks for that.

Wow for sure, Bill. What a wonderful Christmas gift. Nicely done!

Bill, these are really nice. So glad you got to see the young and take photos of them before they head to Mexico. Amazing details you captured in them.

Amazing and wonderful – both the story and the images! Isn’t the detail we can capture these days incredible!! The first one has a perfect pose and lovely, interesting BG – it will make an outstanding print!

The detail in the two portraits is awesome, Bill. I certainly could see a large print here. Beautiful work.

Bill, I agree, the detail in the full frame, first shot, is incredible. The female Monarch stands out well enough the the background doesn’t detract, in fact, the green are a great complement to the bf. I like how the little curlycue of vine is circling one of her spots. #3 is another excellent look.

Bill - Exquisite detail of these fresh monarchs.
a Christmas persent!

I like the first one the best because of the sharpness and details. Hopefully, they will make it down to Mexico…Jim