The Paletussock Caterpillar

[Bevb]

I took these shots with 70-200 f2.8 with 36mm tube attached, and as explained in one of Loupeys threads i cant get the subject as clear and in focus as it should be, but shall be trying other subjects now with some advice from Loupey.

[Loupey]

I think its actually working as the very tips of the hair bristles on the first image is fairly sharp.

Bev, I know that you know all about shallow DOF work (I've seen your excellent work with dogs). Just keep in mind that you're now in the macro relm. On certain tube/lens combos, we're talking DOF in the millimeters - even at mid apertures. On large subjects like this that are not flat, you've got to pick your DOF slice very precisely. And even then, if you sway forward or back even a hair, the shot is ruined. Tripod doesn't always work because the wind is blowing or the creature is moving.

I know you'll master it in no time :thumbsup:

[Bevb]

I think its actually working as the very tips of the hair bristles on the first image is fairly sharp.

Bev, I know that you know all about shallow DOF work (I've seen your excellent work with dogs). Just keep in mind that you're now in the macro relm. On certain tube/lens combos, we're talking DOF in the millimeters - even at mid apertures. On large subjects like this that are not flat, you've got to pick your DOF slice very precisely. And even then, if you sway forward or back even a hair, the shot is ruined. Tripod doesn't always work because the wind is blowing or the creature is moving.

I know you'll master it in no time :thumbsup:

Glad you mentioned the tripod Loupey as i did give it a try, to no further success really, so i have taken everything on board and will be going out to practice more today. Cheers.

[SmartWombat]

I think that you may find a rail is useful with a tripod and moving victims.
Allows you to move the camera back and forward at the twist of a knob, while keeping the stability of the tripod.
Olympus call it a focus stage.

[Bevb]

Thanks PAul sounds interesting, how does it actually work?