2014 birds & nature Lizzey - (enlarge)

I don't really know if this was a Male or Female Lizard, but I don't

think it matters all that much. Lizzey just seemed to fit. While visiting

Mike in Florida, on the 4th day of our visit, we were relaxing outside

and the Lizards were abundant. One had travelled over to the

wooden structure that partly shelters one of his telescopes. I was

really hoping to get some good detail on the face, but because they

are not large, I suppose some of the other parts of the body were in

the same Focal Plane as well. 'Focal Plane' is one of the areas that I

am trying to work harder on. I figure the Little Lizard was 6-8 inches

in length from end to end of tail. I was about 3 feet away for this

handheld shot. Over the winter I am trying to improve on my

handholding skills as well. (any visits and comments are always

welcomed, many thanks, Gail)

She's a real cutie and you captured her well...  Mike

Hi Gail,

A fine use of your 100 mm F/2.8 macro lens.

The F/2.8 (wide open setting) optimizes what the lens can deliver for the development of

details. The use of ISO 200 with your camera's sensor package optimized the contrast and

color available from this scene.

In the real world for macro work, once you determine what plane of focus you want (like the head section of this lizard), anything else that is beyond that is an added bonus when your perspective is nearly perpendicular to the subject.  

Warmest Regards, Mike

We had just discussed Plane of Focus before I went out to capture 'Lizzey'. I was quite intent on getting good detail in the face and eye area. I had been uneasy about posting this one because I was disappointed in the areas where there was not good focus. But once I went over the facts in my mind, it is only common sense that the area of the neck and top of leg and feet were farther away. I could not expect to get good focus there. I am sure I will be more fascinated as I practice more. Many thanks for all your good tips and reinforcing these facts in my mind during our visit. I think I may print this one for my Grandson Kael. He would enjoy it.

Many thanks for your visit and information Mike, best regards, Gail

Thanks Mike! Glad you like my 'Lizzey'!!! They are such tranquil creatures and so beneficial for the garden and yard!

Dear Gail,

There are two things that immediately stand out about this fine image...First is the wonderful detail that just pops right off the page. The second is perhaps why that detail is so pronounced, namely the light toning of the background. There is a delicateness to this whole image...understated hues, simple surroundings. Its strength lies in that delicateness. Nicely done!

Tim

A beautiful result with very nice details, Gail!

I like the mono tone of this image. Well done overall.

I am very grateful for your visit as I truly admire your Macro images. You are an inspiration to so many.

Humble regards, Gail

many thanks Ruud for your visit and input. I always appreciate your encouragement!!

Hi Tim

many thanks for your visit and of course that critique. I really appreciate your input. Many thanks for the 'smile' that is still on my face,

:)Gail

Very good work! I like your use of selective focus with a very wide aperture. Great details and beautiful tones. Compliments and best regards! 

wonderful macro and selective focus. compliments -koushik

Bokeh is a Japanese word and means something, I forgot exactly what, but it is about the shallow DOF!  I rather use small sensor camera to get perfect DOF for the objects I use as PSD files to make my combinations!

Nice lizard, cute things those lizards and once upon a time there were not so cute, ha! 65 million years ago, that is!

Well done, dear Gail!

Best regards

PDE

Hi Gail, what a great capture - the detailing around the eyes is terrific. He really is a cute little guy. Kindest regards Louise

It is so good to hear from you. I think of you often because of the terribly hot temps in Australia and because of the fires. I hope you and Grayham are safe. Many thanks for your input on this lizard. They certainly are fast and very interesting to observe.

Hello, Koushik! I have many people to catch up on and you are one! I do hope 2014 is starting out well for you. Many thanks for your visit and your input shared. :) Gail

I think she is a lady, she has new fashion white mascara around her eyes :) , wonderful details, amazing creature. Well done, amiga. 

Excellent work, alluring model. Have a nice weekend

Fantastic, Gail!!

Many thanks to you both for your visits. I do appreciate the time you took to stop by and your encouragement shown by your visits.

Kindest regards, Gail

You are right!! They say white around the eyes often highlights them well!!! Many thanks to you Mari for dropping by. I hope it is warm where you live!

all the best, Gail

So wonderful to hear from you Pierre. I am pleased that you enjoyed this compositon!!!

I am so used to shooting wide open that I always go back to it. I am glad you saw how it served me well in this image.

I thought I had commented on this before ! Anyway it's nice to see it again ! I like the almost monochrome effect with just a touch of colour . Bill