It's Not As Easy As It Looks

We all like the various images of beautiful butterflies.  But, while enjoying the visual aspects of a quality photo, do you ever wonder about the skills and luck involved?  It is not as easy to get a good shot; as you may think.
For one thing, butterflies do not hold still. they are constantly on the move. Wings are flapping to hold balance and they are usually slowly creeping forward; while feeding. Try to get a good image of a cluster of puddling butterflies and you will soon she what I mean. They are never syncronized with their movements.
Many of my photo opportunities are in Canaan Valley.  Have you ever been there when the wind wasn't blowing? As you can see from this shot of Pink-edged Sulphurs; it just isn't easy.  Not in the real world.
butterflies canvas prints
Nature Photography Close Up: Macro Techniques in the Field

Close-Up Photography in Nature
John Shaw's Closeups in Nature (Practical Photography Books)
A World Of Butterflies
Peterson First Guide to Butterflies and Moths