The 400F5.6 Macro Lens :)

[Joerg Rockenberger]

It always amazes me how good the 400F5.6 can be for (semi-) macro images - especially in combination with extension tubes to reduce the MFD. The image was photographed in Delta Del Ebro, Spain.

Thanks for looking. JR

Canon 30D, 400F5.6, 68 mm of extension tubes, 1/1000s, F8, ISO-400, Manual Exposure, Natural Light, Handheld

[Julie Kenward]

Very nice, John! My one suggestion would be to think about doing a little selective sharpening on the actual eye itself. The body and head are nicely in focus but the eye (which I assume was just a tiny bit closer to your sensor than the rest of the insect) could use a slight tweak.

Everything else is suberb. I even like that you left the OOF plants down in the LRC.

[Paul Pagano]

Well done. Unbelievable for a hand held image.

[Kaushik Balakumar]

Excellent details & sharpness. Lovely bokeh. Very well exposed. Might agree with Julie on eye sharpening - that wud pop up the image.

[Joerg Rockenberger]

Thank you all for the feedback. Wondering if the DF was moving its head a little bit as the DOF seems large enough given that about a third to half of the near wing is in focus... Nonetheless, I just may try your suggestion.

And Julie, I am glad you like the OOF plants in the LRC. I thought they nicely balance the composition.

Paul, let me clarify that I was sitting on the ground bracing my arm against my knee...

Thanks! JR

[Aristotle Georgiou]

Great close up shot, with nice detail and excellent composition.