riverlass Loc: northern California

This is a big, female Mantis religiosa. The order is Mantodea.
She and I had a great morning. She was actively involved in posing for me. We had quite a bit of non verbal communication going on. I also talked to her quietly. She seemed happy to have company for a while.
I used all of my macro equipment... the 105 lens, SB700 speedlight and diffuser, and a sturdy tripod. AND... the advice from the Macro experts here on UHH.
This was fun and I'm pleased with the results.

"Hello there."

(Download)

"I have a blue nose."

(Download)

Profile


The other end.



(Download)

Looking up


Another profile


Too close? Compound eye and pseudopupil


Looking like a leaf

NormPR

Great Set :thumbup:

Nikonian72 Loc: Chico CA

:thumbup:

EnglishBrenda Loc: Kent, England

A comprehensive set of instructional photos. Shows how macro can be a useful tool in the classroom.

tinusbum Loc: east texas

all nice but i love the 2nd

Linda From Maine Loc: Yakima, Washington

Some really cool shots - and I loved your commentary!

riverlass Loc: northern California

Thanks everyone. It was a really fun morning. I feel like practice, practice, practice is working.

riverlass Loc: northern California

I hope this means that I did really well. I value your opinion (as with everyone) and I wouldn't want a " :thumbup: " if I didn't deserve it. Thanks for the " :thumbup: " though... It made my day.

Coolcameragirl Loc: Bradenton, FL

Terrific shots! The way the head is cocked in some remind me of the way a dog looks when you whistle.

riverlass Loc: northern California

Funny you should say this. I did whistle at her a few times. She would respond to the whistle and, I think, she responded to my talking as well. We really did have something going between us. The one shot that I took of her neck from underneath was because my sister was moving her fingers above the Mantis head and she kept looking up at them. Fun stuff.

LoneRangeFinder Loc: Left field

:thumbup:

waltchilds Loc: Central Florida

Really nice shots. I really like #1 and #2, which have to be some of the best portraits of a Mantis I have seen.

bigwolf40 Loc: Effort, Pa.

They are great shots. I haven't seen any at all this year..Rich

randave2001 Loc: Richmond

Very nice set. :thumbup: :thumbup:

amyinsparta Loc: White county, TN

super duper! :thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup: