This seems to be the prime season for butterflies and I have been seeing lots of them this past week. I spotted this spectacular Eastern Tiger Swallowtail (Papilio glaucus) as I was exploring Occoquan Regional Park last Thursday. It was attracted to a pink flowering plant that I think is some kind of milkweed—I am a whole lot more confident in identifying butterflies than plants.
I am happy with both shots, but must that I particularly like the background in the first image.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
That top photo is gorgeous, Mike.
Thanks, Dan. I generally lead with my favorite photo and this post was no exception. I included the second one, in case some folks prefer to see the butterfly’s fully extended wingspread.
Very nice captures, Mike! I waffle on putting the best image first or to just use the one if it is superior. In your post I was happy to see the second pose and the wing pattern from that vantage point.
Nice Mike! Always fun to see your photos!
Thanks, Reed.
Both are stunning. I usually finish with my favorite, because the last one is usually what shows up in the WP reader.
“Spectacular” is a great choice of word for both the butterfly and the photo Mike. Things really came together for you out there in the nature studio, at that particular moment.
Thanks, Liz. It’s awesome when things work out like that. There are a few things that I can influence by the shooting angle I choose and my camera settings, but the subject behavior and the environment are out of my control. The lack of control is what makes nature photography so challenging and exciting.