
The last cocoon. The final butterfly has emerged and flown away, leaving an empty shell and the Big T and I with new skills and great memories of our Monarch rescue mission. Image: Su Leslie, 2017
2017 has proved to be a bit of a watershed for me photographically.
I have taken more shots than ever before, spent time learning about photography and my cameras, and for the first time have actively composed shots, rather than just pressing the shutter and hoping for the best.
I have also learned that seeing the world through a camera lens brings me closer to understanding and engaging with the natural environment.
So my choice of most meaningful shot for this week’s Daily Post challenge is less about my development as a photographer than a reminder of the fragile beauty of the natural world outside my door.
Isn’t it strange, how looking through a lens can bring you closer to nature, at least sometimes? Counterintuitive β always remembering that looking (with attention) through our eyeballs can do the same. Such a powerful photograph.
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Thank you Rachel. You’re right; it does seem counter intuitive, but I think the habit of seeing the world in terms of what might make a good shot does encourage more attention to detail. π
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I love my iphone camera, always there to show me another angle.
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What did we do before phone cameras? I don’t use mine much at the moment cos I have an old phone which I’d like to replace, but it is so robust it refuses to die. π
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I bought ever tinier cameras until my first smartphone.. and then the world changed. I believe real photographers use real cameras, but Jane Bloggs is contented.
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There are so many amazing photos taken with smartphones, it’s tempting to leave the heavy kit at home. My son who is a professional photographer has started using his iPhone a lot more and I’m loving the images he produces. I guess a good eye is a good eye, no matter what technology is used.
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Good on you, Su.
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Thanks Susan π
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Love the blog title as well as the photo!
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Thanks Sandra. π
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Wonderful post
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Thank you π
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I love your blog and it would be amazing that you join the Christmas tag. πππ Merry Christmas π π π
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It’s an exquisite photo, Su, and I have really enjoyed seeing the development of your new approach to photography.
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Thank you so much. Best Christmas wishes to you and your whanau.
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Thank you for sharing your personal development as a photographer using the imagery of the cocoon and the emerging butterfly! Merry Christmas!
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Thank you Peter. Being able to watch the whole butterfly life-cycle (and photograph it) really did bring about a new way of seeing for me. Merry Christmas to you and your family. π
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I so enjoy your photography and look forward to more in 2018. This one is truly exquisite!
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Thanks so much Amy. It has certainly become a source of real joy for me. And far less frustrating than my research at the moment. So many brick walls!!!!
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Well, I miss Shaking the Tree, but am finding Zimmerbitch always lifts my spirits. π
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I am working on a few posts, but I keep hitting brick walls and end up feeling I don’t have anything to say π
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Say it anyway. You know how many times I’ve posted without answers and gotten questions or tips that have moved me forward.
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You’re right! Thanks for the little nudge π
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You have certainly enthralled me with your photography. Love seeing the macros π
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Thanks Jude. I’m loving the new lens!! Merry Christmas to you and your family π
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Very good, Su!
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Thanks Sue π
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Well done Su. You are creating some lovely photography.
Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year to you and yours.
Leslie
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Thank you so much Leslie. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and all your family. π
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Good to know, Su. I’ve enjoyed both your images. π π Wishing you a healthy, happy year ahead.
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Thanks Jo. All the best to you and your family too π
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I always enjoy your photographs. And I picked up in the comments that your sone is a professional photographer! The apple doesnβt fall far from the tree.
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Thank you Anabel. In this case I feel like the apple!
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very nice π
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Su, I have always enjoyed your βeyeβ to capture your world and enjoyed your new phase, sharing stunning photos. I appreciate your sensitivity and care for nature.
Wishing you and yours a happy holiday season and a peaceful new year.
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Thank you so much. My very best wishes to you and yours π
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Youβre most welcome! Same to you.
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