Ice Mantis

Image Critiques Weekly Challenge
1

Image(s)

IMG_0010-2-Enhanced-NR-2.jpg
IMG_0010-2-Enhanced-NR-2.jpg2000×1348 1.2 MB

Image Description

Another micro ice sculpture from the ice storm of 2008 in NH. This formation from this angle reminds me of the head of a Praying Mantis, thus the post title. These tiny ice formations were truly amazing to view close up.

Feedback Requests

This is nearly full frame with a crop off the left side.

I went with a shallow DOF to focus on the amazing detail in the “right eye.” The OOF section on the left represents the body of the mantis, and the OOF section on the bottom represents the right-front leg. Can you see this too?

Thanks for looking, all feedback is appreciated!

Pertinent Technical Details

EOS 50D on tripod
EF 100 Macro USM
f/4 @ 1/13, ISO 100
Processed in LRC

2

Jim, your framing works well with the soft lead in from the left and the tight focus on the details. The lines in the ice are excellent, while the twig helps tell the story. The browns add a good bit of warmth to offset the feel of the ice.

3

Really nice find and capture, Jim. Yes, I see the mantis. The texture in the ice is really nice too. Well done.