Scorpionfly Close-Up (Panorpidae)

Image Critiques Macro/Close-up Critiques
1

PanorpaCloseup.jpg
PanorpaCloseup.jpg2000×1334 314 KB

Critique Style Requested: Standard

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

Description

This is from the original series of shots that I took several weeks ago. The original was under-exposed significantly and did not think much of it until I began to work with the image. The insect image is at life size so by definition, it is a true macro photo. The BG consists of OOF cup plant flowers and shadowed vegetation.

Specific Feedback

I like this one much better than the first that I posted of this insect. The scorpionfly is a very interesting looking insect, but I like the non-subject elements in the photo just as much. How do you like the comp on this one as well as the highlights? Thank you for checking out this one…

Technical Details

Z9 105mm f2.8 Micro + 1.4x TC (1/250sec at f22, ISO 1600, Fill at -1.3ev) DeNoise, Levels, Full Frame.

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2

Very cool insect and I do like the composition, Jim. I do find my eye being pulled toward that upper right corner by the brightness of the stem up there. , but that should be a pretty easy adjustment.

3

Jim, this looks great as presented. That is one striking “proboscis”… :grinning_face_with_smiling_eyes: and you’ve got excellent details in its head. The curled up abdomen is interesting also. I think I saw one of these a couple of days ago, but it took off as I got into position for a photo…booooo.

4

Probably I have seen one of these, but wasn’t aware of it. Reminds me of a crane fly, but obviously not the same. I like the composition with the strong diagonals and the dark background behind the body and wings, but with the lighter flower to show up those antennae. If it was on purpose - great job, if it was accidental, how happy was that? I like the eyes on this critter - bet they don’t miss much. The tip of the abdomen seems to have a stinger, but is that just a deterrent that isn’t functional? Off to google.

5

Jim, Very nicely done. I believe I like this one best too. Ido like the composition. Not as much distractions in this shot. Exposure and details look good.