PHOTOGRAPHING BUTTERFLIES

Macro’ photography ideally means showcasing something larger than its original size. This calls for the lens to be very close to the subject – merely a few Centimeters away.

- Prasad Navale

Getting that close has its own problems. Every living critter – be it bugs, butterflies, scorpions, or similar subjects – have what is known as the ‘fear circle’. As soon as you enter the fear circle, it will flee/fly away. Some, like the scorpion or a tarantula may even attack you. Hence the first requirement is to approach your subject without scarring it.

In this short write-up are some general tips on photographing butterflies. To be a successful photographer in this genre, one needs to understand:

• The subject’s habitat and behavior. Some elusive butterflies like the ‘Tinsel’ and the ‘Red Helen’ are seen around lush green forested patches only, while some un-common butterflies like the ‘Joker’ are found in dry deciduous areas. Interestingly, the very uncommon ‘Anomalous Nawab’ and the ‘Black Rajah’ are seen in urban areas.

• The subject’s preferred activity time. During the day when the sun is shining and the temperature rises, the beautiful ‘Silver-lines’ show up. Elusive butterflies like the ‘Orange Awlet’ are seen during dark hours of dawn or dusk.