Predaceous Diving Beetle

[Steve Maxson]

This swimming Predaceous Diving Beetle (Family Dytiscidae) was photographed in my 2-gallon aquarium setup. (Sort of like photographing birds in flight, but without AF.) There are over 400 species of these in North America and this individual is about 12 mm in length. Both larvae and adult Dytiscids have well-deserved reputations as voracious predators of (mostly) other aquatic invertebrates. 40D, 100mm macro, 1/250, f/16, ISO 100, MT-24 macro twin lites, hand held. RAW file PP in CS3 - levels, curves, saturation. I removed a lot of tiny specs from the water to clean up the image. All comments are welcome and appreciated.

[Steve Canuel]

This is very cool Steve. Your tank setup shots keep getting better. Looks like this guy is glowing from within. I love the look of the eyes and his placement between the weeds is perfect.

[WIlliam Maroldo]

Man Steve, you are getting really good at this under water stuff!! Detail, exposure, and position of the waterbug fantastic. I noticed your using a different lens. Anyway, I might clone out some vegetation at the top left. Outstanding work, as usually, but its hard to believe you've taken it up a notch. regards~Bill

[Stu Bowie]

Steve, I like the perspective, and nicely framed inbetween the plants. Overall, good detail on the little guy.

[Ken Childs]

Wow, Steve! This is my favorite of the underwater bug shots you've posted so far! You've got great natural framing of the subject, the lighting looks great and most of the bug is tack-sharp! Well done! :cheers:

[Arthur Morris]

:2eyes2: Wow! I would not touch a pixel. I love ow the brightness and sharpness of the bug contrasts with the softness and muted colors of the killer.

[Anita Bower]

Agree with above comments. This forum is making it difficult for me to dislike bugs! :)

[Roman Kurywczak]

WoooooooHoooooo!!! Dang.......this is so off the charts!!!.....we have to start a new one for you!:cheers::cheers::cheers::cheers::cheers:

[Thomas Herou]

Fantastic shot!
An alien attacking from above!Superb BG and comp.

[Andrew McLachlan]

Steve, this is absolutely perfect - wouldn't change a thing! :cheers:

[Steve Maxson]

Thanks everyone for your comments. They are much appreciated. :)

[Galliani Carlo]

great shot, very good

[Steve Wasson]

Cool picture, Steve. Love macro shots that let me see the amazing details in the small things of creation!