Phyllocrania paradoxa at L1 through L4

[papilio_]

It was disappointing having only three Ghosts hatch from the ooth, but was amazing watching the L1 tiny black ants quickly morph into obvious Ghost mantids!

Phyllocrania paradoxa, Ghost Mantis

 

[Crazy4mantis]

these photos are amazing! what is your cam setup?

 

[papilio_]

these photos are amazing! what is your cam setup?

Thank you Crazy4mantis, it's much appreciated!

I'm using a Nikon D800E, Sigma 150mm Apo OS macro lens, with a Raynox DCR-250 closeup lens attached for these shots.

Lighting is of course very important, well-diffused to avoid blown highlights. These were taken under an AlienBees studio strobe with a Fotodiox 16-inch beauty dish diffuser.

 

[Inkie]

GORGEOUS!! :tt1:

 

[papilio_]

Thank you very much Inkie!

 

[fercho ing]

greats shots buddy !!!

 

[twolfe]

Nice L1 images. I've been keeping and breeding this species for 3.5 years.

I hope you will consider submitting some photos for our annual forum calendar.

 

[papilio_]

greats shots buddy !!!

Hey thanks a lot!

Nice L1 images. I've been keeping and breeding this species for 3.5 years.

I hope you will consider submitting some photos for our annual forum calendar.

Wow thanks Tammy, I'd be honored!

 

[dmina]

Very nice.. Thanks for sharing!

 

[papilio_]

Very nice.. Thanks for sharing!

Thank you dmina, much appreciated!