Sundew, the bug eaters

Aussieroo

Here is a selection of photos of a tiny bug eating plant. You can get some idea of scale by the size of the mosquito and the pollen bug some are slowly devouring. The "dew drops" are actually very stick drops of fluid that catch the bugs and slowly they fold inwards and push the bug to the center of the plant where it produces en zines to devour the bug. There are 2 varieties of this plant here, one tall and one prone close to the ground.

Lord Vetinari

LOvely series - esp like #5
Brian v.

Aussieroo

This fly was quite small and as yet remains un identified. It was taken a couple of weeks ago in mid winter so is a very early riser.

Lord Vetinari

Lovely fly shot- suspect it's a chironomid midge (female).
Brian V.

jeffmeyers

Yeah, nice color and sharpness on all of them. I love #5.

Aussieroo

Thanks for the ID Brian, and for your kind comments both of you. Things are evry quiet around here aren't they?

chrisunderwoodimages

That is an incredible series. #4 looks good to me.

GOLDENORFE

very good series, love the light on sundews
phil
http://www.flickr.com/photos/goldenorfe/

Aussieroo

Thank you Chris & Phil,

I have recently learnt how to focus stack using PS CS4. It is a great feature once you know how to use it and requires no manual work with the exception of levels saturation etc after the stacking has finished.

It is difficult to get the depth with a single shot alone and this new technique certainly helps produce a better looking macro. Mind you it isn't "cheating" as such as nothing that wasn't there while shooting has been added or taken away and the skill to get the various focus points isn't that easy either. I refocus after each shot using the lens focus ring. I guess a focus rail would make it a little easier.