I have not yet seen many colorful butterflies this summer, so I was thrilled this past weekend when I observed a female Eastern Tiger Swallowtail butterfly (Papilio glaucus) feeding on a Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis) and managed to get a couple of good shots.
The first image has a dreamy quality and a softness that I like, with a background that is almost pastel. The body of the butterfly is clearly visible, with its proboscis fully extended.
In the second shot, the colors are more vivid and the butterfly’s head is obscured. However, the wings are open wide and in a beautiful position.
My favorite is the first one. Is there one that you prefer?
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved
Mike Powell 
That´s a beautiful butterfly. I actually like the second one more, maybe it´s a matter of composition.
Thanks. It’s always interesting for me to see what others like and what grabs their attention.
I like them both but the second one shows more of the wings which, with everything happening so fast in nature, I rarely am able to see.
Thanks for your feedback. It helps me give me better perspective when I can learn a bit about what people like (and why).
Both are just beautiful, and beautifully sharp. Boy, that swollen abdomen looks like it is just packed full of eggs. Nice work!
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