I was done for the morning, headed out of the park, and I sat down on a bench, meaning to put my camera back into my bag when I spotted this guy. Tiny at about 5mm (0.19in) and he was going someplace fast. He didn't even stop to look at me. Caught off-guard, I tried to move as fast as I could (and I'm a slow creature at rest), I wrenched the cap off, turned the camera on, and started shooting. I didn't hold out much hope. I had a ridiculously narrow DOF going. I thought all my shots were, well, shot!
So imagine how surprised-giggly-happy I was to see that at least one shot turned out well. At least his eyes are in focus! And I really like how his color is just about the same color as the wood. How cool is that!
You can see him better if you view large. 8D
In related news, I'd like to answer a question I get asked very often: Where do I find these spiders?
First off, let me say this. I hope everyone realizes that I'm not finding a jumping spider every day because that's just impossible! XD
I'm doing a whole week of jumping spider shots but that's only because I have already made enough of them over the course of the past 2-3 weeks. I look for them in the park, mangrove forest and nature reserve. I don't always find them on every trip. There are days when I return home with no spider (or bug) shot. It's always a matter of luck. But I keep looking because it makes me unseasonably happy when I do spot one. 8)
@yonnie I only managed to spot him because he was moving. This is how I spot most spiders (or bugs) among the bushes. I stay very still and watch out for any kind of movement. 8)
Thankfully you have an exceptional eye for these creatures. Most folk wouldn't notice them. Thanks for sharing and explaining that you don't live in a spider-infested location.
Gotta say, I love this. Everything about it. Love the fact that he seems to be made of wood like the bench. A chameleon of the jumping spider world. Awesome dof and detail. fav
A great, big, surprisingly focused and big-eyed "THANK YOU!" to everyone for taking the time to stop by! I appreciate all your comments. Thank you so much. This is one of my favorite photos ever. And I wish I was able to take more shots of this little guy, he's the type of jumping spider I really like, and I think his coloring is awesome.
Again, thank you so much, I am very grateful for your support.
Again, thank you so much, I am very grateful for your support.