that's how they are made

Difficult to execute hand-held shot, in shade. What are your ideas?

Cheers, Sam.

Difficult indeed - would have been great if it were sharper especially I see you had the composition for maximum DOF too - I rarely get a sharp shot of these guys especially in head area. As it is, nicely composed with good colour despite the shade.

Dale, thank you very much for your critique. Taking this photo was also made difficult by the fact that the male was moving ferociously. That in contrast to most insects who sit motionless during this type of action. Then, I had to stand half-bent with my head + camera into the greenery, myself also shaking a bit - & the lens has no image stabilisator! Oh well, using the flash helped a bit. It's a battle, isn't it! Cheers, Sam.