Bamboo_Viper, in Taiwan Fog Forest

I was documenting some plant experiments in a fog forest high up in

Taiwan mountains. When I came across this well camouflaged viper it

was already getting very dark. That day I had no external flash with

me. My only tele lens shaded part of the built in flash of my D70. So

I decided to use the 50mm AFD F1.8 that was in my bag.

I must admit I was a bit nervous being forced to go close to the

estimated striking range :-) As it turned out my estimate was correct.

Too bad the light was not perfect but as a reminder of the rare event

the shot will pass.

The light still looks pretty good and really brings out the color of the viper, and as crazy as I am to get 'the shot,' I would have had to think twice about using a 50 mm on this guy.  Maybe if he is non poisonous, but if he is 'no way jose.'

I agree with Monte.. The details and lighting on this are amazing. The shades of green are really good.  I hate snake but had to look.  You're brave!  Gail

Monte thanks for the kind words. No this snake is not only very pretty and elegant but also very dangerous. While very aggressive this species is not one of the fastest strikers and I know to keep both eyes open while focusing :-) Survival rate (of us humans ^^) is not too bad^^. Well one should not joke about that. I used to catch non poisonous snakes and lizards when younger but of course my reflexes are not as good as as they used to be.

Walter

I think that based on your working conditions, the portrait is pretty nice... It is not easy to photographs snakes... but, in your case, the snake seems to have collaborated with you... It has a good position, the head is completely visible.. the body can also be seen, the eye looks sharp... 

congratulations

jc