The Bees Knees

One of the most challenging macro shots is the venerable bumble bee. They are constantly moving. It’s almost impossible to nab a head shot of one, even with long glass. My 105 f/2.8 isn’t long enough. I’m not sure even a 200 would be adequate unless you happen to luck out and be in the right place at the right time (which applies to all photography in general). But it’s a super fun challenge nonetheless.  I was out on Sunday afternoon with my big silver reflector trying to get the holy grail of bumble bee shots in Fonstad’s apple blossoms. I had great full sunlight which was really nice when reflected. But picture me holding my D300s & 105mm lens in one hand and the big reflector in the other trying to nab macro shots! heheheeh… not a pretty sight. 😉 It’s impossible to use a tripod as the bees move way too much way too fast, so everything had to be handheld. I had to shoot in Aperture priority mode because my light changed constantly as I ran around the shady side of the trees or lit them up with the reflector. I just had to pray the camera would pick a shutter speed fast enough to nab the little buggers. hehhhehe… All in all it was a fun way to grab some sunshine for an hour. The holy grail shot is still out there somewhere!