The day that I recorded my 70th species for The Netherlands, my original goal had been a forest in the south of the country. That’s where I headed after saying goodbye to the little group of smiling photographers that had gathered around the precious Chalk-hill Blue.
Apparently all butterfly photographers were either at the site of the Chalk-hill Blue or on their way towards it, because this otherwise pretty crowded forest was void of any other naturalist. I had the place to myself and that suited me just fine.
Conditions were ideal: sunny, no wind, warm but not too hot. Along a long path I encountered one butterfly after the other. As there were many dark holes in the vegetation, I finally got the chance to shoot some butterflies against a natural black background: one of my favourite lightings conditions, although it is not to everyone’s taste.
First up is this Map (Araschnia levana)
It was followed in quick succession at the same flower group by a Gatekeeper (Pyronia tithonus)
A couple of hours later – I was already heading towards my car – the Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta) presented itself in a very nice spot. Being the writer of Red Admiral Butterfly Photography Blog, I had to take this shot of course!
After I had taken some refreshments at the car, I decided on one last stroll down another forest path. The effort paid off as I was able to catch a Brimstone (Gonepteryx rhamni) against a black background as well. That made four such shots in one day!
All things considered, a very productive day with very pleasing results. I drove home to my wife with a big smile on my face and a story to tell.
Red admiral 
Super shots Sven.
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Thanks Brian
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Wat een mooie contouren heeft het landkaartje. Petje af.
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