Reed Stalk Hugger - Click image to view larger!

Hi Tm,

Nice capture.

However, too much F-stop really limited the image quality. Your 500mm with an extension or by itself at F/4 would provide blistering high definition images not seen here.

Best Regards,  Mike

Thanks Mike! I will try the 500mm alone with a wider open f-stop next time and see. I was after the DOF and for this shot I did not really needed all that f-stop since I can get very close to the bug. For some of the other shot, I do need all the focal length & f-stop since the bug were out there in the middle of the pond. I think the shot is decent but just like you, I feel as though something is still not right but I don't know if it's the noon light or the closed up f-stop.

Hi Tm,

I have the same lens and teleconverter that you do. These are fantastic optical systems that really are meant to be used with in their designed focusing range. I do not use extension tubes.

This lens are also designed specifically to be used wide open, with or without the teleconveter.

At long range, DOF is not an issue. At short range it does become an issue if you want everything to appear in focus, but at the sacrifice of definition. remember, DOF means that the best areas of focus give up some quality so that other areas look to be in focus.

Now, at closer range, the position of the subject is very important as you can still keep a relative fast f-stop if the subject to camera lens orientation is correct.

Now, when all else remains difficult , I go for the most interesting feature on the subject and just let the blur happen without any concern for DOF.

For dragonflies, this can be the head, his grip on a branch, wings , etc.

Best Regards,  Mike