Funny, almost thought it was my photo of the same sphinx moth. However, the flower is different. Your colors are great. It's so amazing to see the length of the proboscis. We have had very few, almost none, of these for the last 2 seasons. I hope they are doing better where you found this one.   Posted: 09/07/2023 14:55:09

There's an interesting story about this shot. My good friend took me to an area where we have photographed before, and it was my 2nd trip out since shoulder surgery in early June. He was so nice to insure my safety and well-being on this shoot. A few days prior to our shoot, he had been there and photographed the Sphinx moths. When we arrived, there were no less than a couple dozen Sphinx moths nectaring like crazy on the Thistle. I have never seen that many at one time. It was a sight to behold.   Posted: 09/08/2023 10:08:32

Don. this is an amazing image. It is pretty close to perfect and seeing your story about your friend made it even better. I know you have had a long go on that shoulder and having someone that made such an effort to get you there and back when I'm sure you were itching to break loose says something special about your friend. You should get a print made for him to thank him! In fact this would make a lovely thank you card. It's something I've wanted to do for a long time....take one of my Macro shots or landscape and have them made into cards!

Nice to see you getting back to normal!!!   Posted: 09/13/2023 10:35:07

Fantastic job on this shot, Don. And your personal story makes it all the more impactful. Colors are well balanced and understated, inviting the viewer's attention to the subject. Speaking of the subject, OMG you absolutely nailed the focus. Great technical decision making with a high ISO that gave you more flexibility with the aperture and shutter speed. Dialing in Topaz in post probably elevated the sharpness of the image to a superior level. That moth seems to be looking at you with an expression that says don't bother me. Excellent job on the crop, too. Hope you are making a print of this.   Posted: 09/13/2023 12:46:20

Very nice image of Sphinx Moth. Beautiful colors and great composition. Great job!   Posted: 09/20/2023 10:13:39

I am not an insect person, looking close gives me goosebumps. However, I appreciate the enjoyment and effort you put in that made this shot so nice. The colors are terrific and you can tell the moth is enjoying his meal.   Posted: 09/22/2023 14:07:47