Tortoise Beetle Super Macro Photography -

EXIF:

Camera: Nikon D810
Lens: Nikon 24mm f/2.8
Configuration: Reverse Mounted
Extension Tubes: 36mm
Image Stack: 13 Images
Stackware: Helicon
Aperture: f/8
Shutter Speed: 1/250 sec
ISO: 200
Flash: Nikon SB200 Dual Flash Heads
Stabilization: Focus Rail on Tripod
Subject Size: 1 cm
Species: Argus Tortoise Beetle (Chelymorpha cassidea)
Location: Ft. Collins, Colorado

I found the above Argus Tortoise Beetle clinging upside down to a board that I placed in the meadow behind my house. It attached itself flush to the wood, appearing to be sealed in place.

I found the below Tortoise Beetle in the same situation. It was slightly smaller than a Lady Bug and much smaller than the Argus Tortoise Beetle. I’m not sure the exact species; perhaps a Golden Tortoise Beetle that turned red from alarm, as they do. The image below is a 37 stack using Zerene. To save batteries I used 2 LED light panels instead of flash positioned on either side of the beetle. Despite the apparent brightness of the lights, I was limited to using ISO 800 with 1/200th sec.

When not hiding, Golden Tortoise Beetles enjoy stargazing, Netflix and restoring old cars

EXIF:

Camera: Nikon D810
Lens: Nikon 18-55mm @18mm
Configuration: Reverse Mounted
Extension Tubes: no
Image Stack: 37
Stackware: Zerene
Aperture: f/8
Shutter Speed: 1/200 sec
ISO: 800
Flash: No, dual LED panels as ambient light
Stabilization: Focus Rail on Tripod
Subject Size: 6 mm
Species: Golden Tortoise Beetle(?) (Charidotella sexpunctata)
Location: Ft. Collins, Colorado