I didn’t have my tripod with me when I photographed this frog.  I held the camera as steady as I could without disturbing my little model.

When I encounter wildlife, I try to take a quick photo from a distance in an effort to get at least one good photo.

But I’m never satisfied with taking a photo from a distance.  I enjoy getting as close as possible to my subject with my macro lens.  Yes, I understand I don’t have to get physically close to my subject if I use a telephoto lens, but I find that lens quite limiting. There’s something enchanting (and challenging) about getting up close to a frog… a butterfly… etc.

The photo below required me to get down on my knee… in the mud.

The photo below is the same as the above, but I cropped it to focus on the eye.

If you look closely in the eye, you see the reflection of trees, the sky and clouds.  It took me a few minutes to realize (and accept) the blob on the left side is me!  I’m wearing a hat and I’m leaning down with my elbow resting on the ground.  Wow!

This is why I love nature photography.

---

While photographing the frog in the mud, this frog kept sneaking up in the water.  It was very skittish – I had to point my camera where I thought it might pop up and wait patiently.  While the photos aren’t as crisp as I’d like them – they are still fun.

I think this is my favorite of the two photos.  Look at those legs!

 

Camera:  Rockalita Sunshine (Canon 5D Mark IV)
Lens:  My beloved 100 mm macro lens (Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 L macro IS)
Date:  October 1, 2016
Location:  LBJ National Grasslands
Tips:  Go outside.  Pick a spot. Observe your surroundings quietly.  You might be surprised by what you discover by being still.