I have to admit that this photo is a bit old and actually dates back to when I had no clue what I was doing and was shooting in one of the auto-modes. However, I feel we need something with a little color since the last few have been somewhat drab. With spring finally setting up shop, shots like this will hopefully be more frequently.

Technical Data: Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT, Tamron 180mm f/3.5 Di SP LD 1:1 Macro, 1/320 sec at f/4.5. ISO 400. No post production. Franklin Park Conservatory, Columbus, OH.

Why This Photo: What can I say? I like macro photography, and butterflies make interesting macro subjects.

What Works: A shallow depth of field produces a nicely blurred background, while keeping the camera parallel to the wings of the butterfly keeps them in relatively good clarity. Also, the focus is sharp on the eyes of the butterfly, and a diagonal composition nicely balances the orange butterfly with the green plants.

What Doesn't Work: The antenna breaks the top of the frame, and the depth of field is a bit too shallow to keep the tips of the antenna in clarity.

I also have to apologize that I don't know the species of this butterfly, and I'm feeling a little lazy tonight, so I don't have my normal species information.

I'm just looking forward to getting out and capturing more spring macros soon!

- Bill