A couple of insects.

[Trent Watts]

While exploring a local pond this afternoon I was on my stomach and water striders were buzzing all over the water. I am so fascinated by their ability to use the surface tension of the water and specialized hairs on their legs to stay afloat. Another fly that Bugguide tells me is a Hover Fly.

Hover Fly.

Water Strider. Note the small indent in the water from the foot. With the insect so close to the water a distinct shadow was impossible for me to avoid.

Another one.

 

[AlanLichty]

Water Striders are pretty amazing for seeming to defy gravity on top of the water. Nice shots of them. I like the second image with the full strider in focus and way the legs are mirrored with the shadows.

 

[Michael13]

Great photos - I admire your dedication and hard work getting these images!

 

[JimFox]

Totally amazing Trent. Great job on all of these.

Would a polarizer be able to cut through the shadow of the water striders? But I will say I am not bothered by the shadows.

 

[Trent Watts]

Totally amazing Trent. Great job on all of these.

Would a polarizer be able to cut through the shadow of the water striders? But I will say I am not bothered by the shadows.

Interesting idea Jim.. I don't have a polarizer but it would be interesting to try.

 

[Trent Watts]

Great photos - I admire your dedication and hard work getting these images!

Hey Michael. Thanks so much.