Snapshots: Julian W.

Name: Julian W.
Type of photographer: Professional
Equipment: Sony Alpha 100, Hasselblad Xpan-II, Nikon D2X, F5 and F100

The wonderful vision On a field trip specifically to capture macro subjects, I chanced upon this Asiatic toad (Bufo melanostictus) resting in the fork of a small tree. It was perfectly camouflaged with its surroundings and did not even move an inch when I approached for a closer look.

Captivated by the intricate patterns in its eye, I decided to do an extreme macro; provided I could get close enough. I decided to mount my favorite 105mm with two extension tubes to get the proximity I was looking for.

Sitting on the ground, I began to advance slowly as I did not want to startle the toad. Initially, I could tell it was wary of my steady approach because it brought all its limbs closer to its body (like it was curling into itself). I then decided to change my strategy and slowed down my movement significantly.

After a long, long while (7 hours!), I managed to set up my camera just about an inch from its eye and began my photography. By this time, the toad had grown so accustomed to my presence that it just allowed me to go about doing my job. It probably regarded me as its new neighbor as it must have concluded that I had no intention of grabbing it for a meal.
Equipment: Nikon F100 with 105mm F2.8 Micro; 2 extension tubes; SB-26 flash and tripod; shot on Fujichrome Velvia 50