Nestled gently in the leaves of a tall tree, these two Monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus) were mating, doing their part to perpetuate a species often considered at risk. I captured this image in late August at Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge and re-discovered it yesterday when I was going through my photos from the week before my recent trip to Brussels.
I love the way that the upper butterfly is discreetly hidden by the leaves, but is revealed in its shadow. I find the colors in this image to be especially beautiful. with a wonderful contrast between the warmth of the orange and the coolness of the blue. Most of all, though, I love the way that the background turned out, with its soft circles of out-of-focus highlights.
This is the kind of image that I strive to capture, one that gently draws in viewers and speaks to them softly, reminding them of the undiscovered beauty that surrounds them all of the time.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved
The shadow is very interesting Mike. That part of the leaf appears to be backlit and I think the shadow could rightly be called a silhouette couldn’t it? Its very dramatic and I love the effect!
You pose an interesting question, Liz. Is it a shadow or a silhouette or is it both? Whatever the case, the effect is definitely cool and unusual.
I love the light in this one, Mike. Great job!
A rare and hopeful shot – it’s beautiful!
Wonderful image !!
Thanks, Bernie.