I don't know if Phipps really likes pests like grasshoppers jumping around their greenhouses, but during out last visit we saw a couple around,

Technical Data: Canon EOS 7D, Tamron 180mm f/3.5 Di SP LD 1:1 Macro, 1/330 sec at f/9.9. ISO Auto. Canon Monopod. Phipps Conservatory, Pittsburgh, PA.

Why This Photo: Seeing this grasshopper in the conservatory was enough of a surprise and different subject for in the gardens, that it was a pleasant alternative to the usual subjects there. I would have liked to have shot with a tripod, but at least the monopod helped a bit.

What Works: I like the tack sharp focus coupled with just the right amount of depth of field. The foreground flower and grasshopper are in focus, but the background is soft and the additional blurred flower provides a nice reference point and additional focal 'distraction' for multiple points for the viewer's eyes to wander to.

What Doesn't Work: The framing might be better slightly pulled back to not cut off the flower in the foreground, or alternatively just a lower angle shot to get more of profile shot of the grasshopper.

Do you see anything you like or dislike about this photo? Drop me a comment and let me know.

- Bill