Orange Hairstreak (+revised)

Revised Version

Revision 1 (latest)

Added after receiving feedback from the community.


Original Version

Critique Style Requested: Standard

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

Description

From now till the end of June is prime time for butterflies in Korea, especially for the beautiful hairstreaks. This one is found mainly in Korea and Japan. I think this individual had just eclosed, as it allowed me to approach more than once at low level today. I took this opportunity to take a very close portrait. One day I’d like to show this butterfly more in its lush hedgerow environment. But - as it reminds me so much of the Irish flag(!) - for now I thought I’d present it “in your face”.

Specific Feedback

It was facing left; I flipped it. Was this a good idea?

Technical Details

OM1 + 60mm macro 1/60 f6.3 ISO 400 diffused flash

Tonal tweaks in LR, Denoise, Highlights and Curves in PS, small sharpening in Noiseware, cropping.

1 Like

Hi Mike,
Excellent details on the macro shot. I like the stripes seen on it.

When these flitty little things give you a break, take it! I like the frame of green and the incredible detail. Nothing wrong with a fantastic portrait.

Mike: Terrific capture of this little guy. Knowing how small our hairstreaks are makes this even more impressive. If this is the prelude to your season I’m really looking forward to what’s to come. >=))>

Nice shot! The patch of orange in a sea of green is very eye-catching.

If you could leave a little more room on the left and a little less on the right, I think it would help, but it’s very nice as is.

Mike, the color combination here is very eye catching (and pleasing). You’ve got excellent details in the bf and it’s perch. Around here, Hairstreaks tend to be hard to shoot as they move almost constantly. This is a beauty!

Thanks @Don_Peters @santhru @Kris_Smith @Mark_Seaver and @Bill_Fach for your comments. Yes, hairstreaks are usually very nippy here too, and often like the upper storey. I try to find them early on in the adult cycle. Maybe I’ll be lucky again after heavy rain today, but I’m not counting my chickens.

Very nice, Mike! I agree with others about the color palette. He really stands out nicely. Great details. These guys are very active and so for you to capture such a pose is commendable.

1 Like

A very nice portrait and the colors are bright, but not overly saturated. A little more room on the left should strengthen the comp. Well done…Jim

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The original poster added a revised version of their image.

Super portrait!! Hope to see more from you!

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Many thanks for the EP!