Leafcutter Bee "Break Time"
East Greenbush, NY USA
Olympus E510
The Megachilidae are a cosmopolitan family of (mostly) solitary bees whose pollen-carrying structure (called a scopa) is restricted to the ventral surface of the abdomen (rather than mostly or exclusively on the hind legs as in other bee families). Megachilid genera are most commonly known as mason bees and leafcutter bees, reflecting the materials they build their nest cells from (soil or leaves, respectively); a few collect plant or animal hairs and fibers, and are called carder bees. All species feed on nectar and pollen, but a few are cleptoparasites (informally called “cuckoo bees”), feeding on pollen collected by other megachilid bees. Parasitic species do not possess a scopa. The brightly colored scopa leads to a colloquial name used occasionally in North America – “Jelly-belly bees.” Megachilid bees are among the world’s most efficient pollinators because of their energetic swimming-like motion in the reproductive structures of flowers, which moves pollen, as needed for pollination. Ironically, one of the reasons they are efficient pollinators is their frequency of visits to plants, but this is because they are extremely inefficient at gathering pollen; compared to all other bee families, megachilids require on average nearly ten times as many trips to flowers to gather sufficient resources to provision a single brood cell.
North America has many native megachilid species, but Alfalfa leafcutter bees (Megachile rotundata) are an imported species used for pollination. The most significant native species is Osmia lignaria (the “Orchard Mason Bee” or “Blue Orchard Bee”), which is sold commercially for use in orchard crop pollination, and which can be attracted to nest in wooden blocks with holes drilled in them (which are also sold commercially for this purpose). (wiki)


Leafcutter Bee "Break Time" belongs to the following groups:
! 100% !, ** Super Macro Photography (Two Per Day ), All About Your Best Work, Animal Portraits, Bee & Wasp Passions, Birds and Creatures of Flight, Bug Hunt! (with Location please), Extreme Close-Ups, Eye Macros, Freedom to Shine, Insects, Bugs and Creepy Crawlies (2 A Day), Just Pure Nature., Macro Untouched. 2 per day only (closed for reno), Natural Developments, Olympus and Four Thirds Group, Plight of the Bumble Bee, The Fine Art of Photography and Top Shelf Wildlife & Nature Art Available for sale asGreeting Cards

dancinfreakshow
Stunning!!! and so furry:)
Ginger Barritt
Wow…..........................Wow…....................
Maximus
awesome, you must have some lens… :)
monaiman
Really furry. Amazing shot.
barnsis
OMG that is beautifully creepy. awesome work.
Linda Sannuti
WOW!!!! now thats a maro! Superb capture!
Glenda Remaklus
Oh my work….......... what a macro! This is absolutely the greatest. This has to be a 5 STAR!!!!
DarkStars
Superb, visually stunning!!!
Christopher Bi...
oh my….this is special….i dont think you can favorite twice can you??? .....cxx
josiem
incredible macro!!! so sharp!!!!
jesika
Stunning, gorgeous, Beeeeautiful, wonderful, oh, and I like it too!!! (LOL)
j
SandraRos
Stunning, beautiful, awesome and lots and lots more ! You macro Queen ! ! ! !
Belinda Cottee
Absolutely fantastic macro superb shot:)
SandraRos
CONGRATULATIONS ! It just HAD to be a feature !
Kazzoom IPA
awesome shot now thats a macro :)
MuscularTeeth
incredible.
velveteagle
You sure had the focus right on this .. So sharp..
Tracey Mac
Sensational shot…..totally amazing clarity and detail…...
Krys Bailey
Wow! This is sooooo close up! What a beautiful creature the bee is! Fantastic macro work! Love it!
Tony Wong
Excellent !!!!
CazzieCreations
Stunning!!!! :)
Julie Langford
Holy cow – this is the best macro I have seen – ever!
Julie Langford
Please tell me that you have submitted this to National Geographic, and Natural Developments group here on Redbubble. If you havent – you should, its a sure winner for both.
Robin Webster
Absolutely incredible!!!!! Most superb macro!
Lucindawind
wow National Geo for sure!! excellent
Richard Veal
WOW.
This is the most awesome macro/photograph I have ever seen.
Many congrats.
imageworld
wow great macro just everything about this picture say’s greatness a magical work of art
salsbells69
Cor blimey!!! Never seen anything this brilliiant..sure its macro or an electronic microscope!! This is brilliant!
krafty
Oh my …this is absolutely stunning…I have never seen anything so perfectly captured in my life…thanks to Julie Langford for poiinting this out to us..BRILLIANT CAPTURE…Bravo…awesome.xxxxxxxx
Tom Gomez
Incredible detail, amazing colours, just perfect and definitely one of the best macros I have seen. Certainly the best I have seen on RB, so far. You have most of the bee in sharp focus, no mean feat with such a short focal length …
jpryce
Unbelievable…amazing macro…
RavenSoul
OMG! Julie pointed me here and WOWOWOWOWOW She was not even slightly overdoing this it is truly AMAZING!!!
Catherine Veal
Marleia that is just amazing. i’ve never seen any thing as good as that before N G would snap that up i’m sure, congratulations on such a brilliant peice of work, a fave indeed.x
Kathleen Stephens
An amazing macro. Great composition and lighting.
Maria Dryfhout
The proper words do not come to me… what I have to say would not do this image proper justice. I sit here stunned into total silence! “Awesome” does not even come close…. Who says there is no God! You just brought Him “up close and personal…” thank you!
RickF
Awesome macro!
Kimberly Palmer
Oh my goodness, I just want to pet him, and coming from me that is a shocker. I’m insanely afraid of bees.. what an excellent capture… glad Julie pointed this one out.
Helene Kippert
Superb!
ApeArt
Stunning! How on earth did you get such good dof?
pryere
Dumb struck
Thanks to Julie for pointing me here.
Avril Brand
Wow… this is incredible! I am speechless!

NATURELENS
WOW
joak
brilliant stuff well done
linskudd
Wow. Totally amazing.
jacqi
wow, wow, wow, the most incredible and stunning shot I’ve ever seen! I love bees but this one is like something from a horror movie.
Christopher E...
wow..amazing shot!
Bonnie T. Barry
When does class open? I want to sign up immediately! You would be a fantastic mentor and teacher considering this incredible shot! C O N G R A T U L A T I O N S!
Željko Malagurski
FANTASTIC!!! BRAVOO!!! Is it real at all!!!
Siamesecat
I agree WOW..What a bug.. Kind of atractive I must say..Exellent..
Joyce Dickens,...
Absolutely incredible! Breathtaking Macro, perfect in every aspect!
naturelover
Incredible bee shot- absolutely amazing- has to go into my favs
Steve Bulford
WOW…..just WOW!!!
onefourseven
Outstanding macro shot!!
I would imagine your lens cost quite a bit!!!
Awesome!!
Brendan Schoon
Amazing macro shot!!! Wonderful!!!! Brendan
Sean Farragher
total wow
Carisma
This is the most incredible Macro I have seen in a VERY long time!! Great work!!!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you very much Carisma!! : )
Irene Burdell
An absolutely brilliant macro shot .
Marleia Main replied
Thank you Irene : )
eXposure
superb macro …
absolutel beauty ♥
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much : ) I really appreciate your comments : )
cdwork
Superb
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much : )
Robyn Carter
Fantstic macro :)
Marleia Main replied
Hi Robyn .. I could not remember if I thanked you so Thank you!!! : )
MDossat
OMG, that’s incredible. Awesome job.
Marleia Main replied
Not sure if I Thanked you yet .. So Thank you very much : )
Basia McAuley
One of the best macros I’ve ever seen! The clarity is perfect!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you Basia : )
Rosina Lamberti
awesome work.
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Rosina : ) : )
turtlepath
wow! and look at those little mandibles…amazing work!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you very much Janice : )
Pete Costick
Absolutely fabulous close up shot. You never fail to impress Marleia.
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much pete : )
Catherine Howell
This is so awesome…too awesome for words!!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you very much Catherine : )
Marleia Main replied
Wow .. Thank you so much : )
Geraldine Lefoe
MArleia there is nothing left to say – amazing macro
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Geraldine : )
dinghysailor1
astonishing capture! outstanding work!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you very much : )
Jennie Anderson
Wow this is superb
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Jenny: )
Christopher Bi...
eeek :))))
North0f40
Pretty cool shot….
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much : )
Nicole Goggins
fantastic! can i ask what sort of lens you use – this is outstanding!
Darren Post
WOW … amazed, simply incredible macro… :-)
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Darren : )
Annika Strömgren
Awesome macro! Great job!!!
Julie Langford
Here you go
National Geographic Your Shot submission page
Marleia Main replied
Wow .. Thank you so much again : )
Susan van Zyl
Awesome Awesome Awesome! Out of this world!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Susan : )
sunsetgirl
Awesome! You can see all the details on this and the bee’s eyes are very cool!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you very, very much : ) : )
trwphotography
WOW what a stunning bee macro! Best I have seen! Excellent work!!!!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you! Thank you!!! : )
Mark Chapman
Unbelievable shot! Brilliant
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Mark : )
Dawne Olson
Wowwwee! This is incredible! The clarity and detail is superb! What a fascinating image!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much Dawne : )))))
Nic Relton
I voted for this today! Well worth it, good luck!
Marleia Main replied
Hey .. We can vote? I am too new at this .. I am going back and voting for my favorite brown fuzzy bear : ) Thank you by the way .. How did I not know I could vote? Oh well I’m Going back!! : ) : )
Nic Relton
Check out the rules on the Natural developments group. They run a monthly competition to win a $25 AUS RB voucher. I saw Bee “Break Time” there and voted for it coz it’s awesome! There is also a wildlife challenge in the Challenge Café group.
rdshaw
WOW.
Marleia Main replied
Thank you very much : )
Mark Jones
Awesome.
Camera type? Lens Type? and how the heck did you get it to sit still so long.
Marleia Main replied
I am the most patient person you will ever meet LOL .. I follow and wait and follow and wait and wait again until whatever it is that I am after does not see me as a threat anymore … then I go in close!!!! I use all olympus!!! The e510, some point and shoots too sometimes but mostly the E510 w/ Zuiko and sigma lenses. I want to try extension tubes too! I also want the Olympus E3 .. soon enough!! Thank you for checking out my Bee : )
Jennifer Woodward
Exceptional work!! The detail is outstanding!! :-)
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Jennifer : )
Mark Jones
It is just so sharp. Have you zoomed in post photograph to bring it close, or is that how close it was when you got the shot from the camera. I’m going bee hunting now this weekend for a macro comp we have at club level.
Marleia Main replied
This is it .. I don’t have any software or anything to change my images .. That stuff is fine but not for me .. I get VERY close to things and keep trying until I feel I have pulled some expression from it .. It takes a lot of time (sometimes) but it is worth it to me : )
Marleia Main replied
Good luck on your bee hunt : ) : )
WayoftheWarrior
OMG>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>OMG!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much : ) I really appreciate your comment!!
o0OdemocrazyO0o
wow, love his hair cut!
I got a few bee pics on my Deviant art site but this is amazing!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much : ) : )
Mark Peterson
Absolutely outstanding!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Mark!! That means a lot to me : )
Andrew S
One of the most amazing captures I have seen, absolutely stunning
Marleia Main replied
Thank you very much Andrew!! :)
Marleia Main
I just want to thank everyone who has commented on my Bee!! I tried to thank everyone individually but in case I have missed anyone … Thank you, Thank you!!!! I really appreciate everyone’s comments!! : ) : ) : ) : ) : )
Jim Hunter
Nothing short of fantastic Jim
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Jim : )
Beve Brown-Clark
Phenomenal work…details are extremely crisp and the color is right on the money!! Absolutely the best work I have seen….!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you very much Beve : )
Lois Bryan
This is extraordinary work … I’m thrilled to get the chance to view it!!!!! I just read a couple of your notes above and I seriously commend you for your love of Mother Nature’s little darlings, here, and your commitment to getting the best image possible!!! Well done and congratulations on your magnificent results!!!!!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much Lois!! I keep meaning to write a profile so people get to know me but … I love to take pictures too much and never make time for that part .. Thank you for the lovely comment : )
Jeremy Harrington
absolutely amazing macro
Marleia Main replied
Thank you very much Jeremy : )
Renee Dawson
Oh my GOODNESS. I think this is the most magnificent bee macro I have ever seen!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Renee : ) : )
Dave Moilanen
WOW! Words can’t describe the beauty of this! This is just outstanding!!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Dave .. I appreciate it. I really hope you enjoy the card .. Thank you again!! : )
Paulette x
superb
Marleia Main replied
Thank you very much Paulette : )
Philip Johnson
congrats on this image and its popularity
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Philip!! : )
JRTrescue
Beeautiful!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you very much : ): ) : )
Ozlem E
Amazing detail!! And and awfully cute little bee!!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Ozlem : )
Debbie Stobbart
This is the most amazing macro shot I’ve ever seen!!!
Did you use a tripod?
Marleia Main replied
Hi Debbie .. Thank you so much : ) No tripod .. They seem to hinder me on most macro shots .. The subjects move around too much to keep adjusting the tripod. : ) : )
Steve Woodman
Absolutely gorgeous!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you Steve : ) : )
David Iori
Stunning!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you very much david : ) : )
EdgeOfReality
Definately a ‘Wow’ image and very well done at being placed at the top of the popular 7 day leader board. Wow.
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much!!!! I didn’t even know what that was but I am excited!! I am glad people like it!! Thank you again!! : )
debsphotos
OMG…I’ve seen so much detail in a macro!!! Excellent image!! Beautiful work!! *-)
Marleia Main replied
Thank you very much Deb : ) : )
Jason Laderoute
WOW!!!!! Super Incredible!!!! I am Stung with Awe!!!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much jason : )!!!!! : )
Corina Daniela...
Extraordinary capture! Is my favourite! I hope you will win! What equipment u used to realise this capture?
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much Corina!! I really appreciate that! I am glad you like him : ) I always use olympus camera’s and I believe this was with a Sigma 105 lens .. Thank you so much again!!
pene
wow… fantastic shot!!!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Pene : ) : )
Carisma
Such a beauty was justly rewarded with a placing in the wildlife challenge!! Great achievement out of so many entries!!
!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Carisma!! I feel very honored to be in the top 10!!! : ) : )
dinghysailor1
Top Ten result!! brilliant and deserving !! hooray!!!! ;))
Marleia Main replied
Thank you! Thank you!!! I was surprised!! A lot of wonderful work there!! Thank you : )
kozmix
Great macro, love the eyes.
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Ruben : ) : )
Nic Relton
Guess I’m being slow, must be preoccupied! WELL DONE you really deserved it!!! Your stuff is really high quality, you should make a book one day – i’d buy it : )
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much!! You are too sweet! Shouldn’t you be sleeping now ; )
steini
Fantastic macro! Incredible detail! One of the best I’ve seen.
Marleia Main replied
Thank you very, very much : ) : )
GerryMac
this is outstanding! the detail is just stunning!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Gerry!! I really appreciate it : ) : )
missmoneypenny
Just incredible
Marleia Main replied
Thank you missmoneypenny!! I really appreciate it : ) : )
André Gonçalves
Nice bee photo! please add this to MacroPhotography group ;)
Marleia Main replied
Hello!! Thank you so much .. I just put it in now! Thank you again : )
geoffgrattan
Fantastic
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much!! I am so happy you like my “little Bee” : ) : )
Kristina K
how did i miss this one, awesome, shot, just gave it my vote..well done :) k
Marleia Main replied
Thank you sooooo much Kristina!!!! I really appreciate it! I am glad you like him : ) : )
Damienne Bingham
Wow this is an incredible capture, the clarity is superb! So many details and textures. Lovely work! What lens did you use for this?
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much Damienne!! I use 2 different Olympus camera’s but I think this was the sigma 105 lens .. Thank you again : )
Damienne Bingham
My pleasure, and thanks for the info! :)
Marleia Main replied
No Problem!! Thank you for commenting : ) : )
Bootiewootsy
Fantastic capture.. You have a very impressive gallery..
Marleia Main replied
Hello : ) : ) Wow!! Thank you so much!! I really appreciate that!!
CherilynJoy
Amazing detail and great lighting! Fascinating shot, Marleia!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Cherilyn!! : )
melant1017
WOW!!! This is a super macro, great job :)
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much : ) : )
DiEtte Henderson
Now that’s a macro shot! Amazing, congrats on your win!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much DiEtte : ) : ))))
MICKSPIXPHOTOS
CONGRATULATIONS ON A VERY WELL DESERVED WIN. THIS CAPTURE IS REALLY AMAZING. GREAT WORK
Marleia Main replied
Wow .. Thank you so much!! I really appreciate the comment : )
RawImages
Extraordinary work…your talent for this is amazing..congrats on your win !
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much .. I really appreciate the comment : ))))
Eyal Nahmias
Fantastic image. I’m glad to be in the same challenge as this image and get third. This is absolutely incredible capture with spot on color, light, comp, and exposure with a unique POV. bravo
Marleia Main replied
Wow .. Well thank you so very much Eyal!! I appreciate the comment! Congratulations to you too!!!! : ))))))
CarolM
Incredible!! National Geographic quality. Excellent detail. Amazing shot. I love it.
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much for the comment Carol!! I really do appreciate the feedback!! : )))))
bidjara
Wonderful macro….congrates on being selected in the Macro comp in the nature group. Mel
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much mel!! I appreciate the comment!! : ))))))
Phineous Cas...
im speechless awesome
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much!! I really do appreciate the comment!! : ) : )
Nic Relton
THE WINNER! WELL DESERVED TOO! : )
Marleia Main replied
Thank you Co-host!! : ))))))))))))))
SandraRos
MANY MANY congratulations on your winning shot …................ you got my vote ! ! !
Marleia Main
Oh Thank you so much!! I so appreciated everyones votes and encouragement!! You are so sweet!! I really value your comments and the time it takes to view my work!! Thank you! Thank you Sandra!! : ))))))))))
kernuak
Well I didn’t win (not that I expected to), but at least I chose the winning image, congratulations, it has real impact.
Marleia Main replied
Wow .. Thank you so much for the nice comment and the vote!! I really did not expect to win either. The images were all so great!! It was quite an honor!!! : ))))))))))))
kernuak
There were a few I was considering, then I saw yours and knew right away. Macros aren’t easy generally and even harder to be creative, as well as technically good.
Marleia Main replied
Thank you again .. really. You are very kind!!!! : ))))))))
Phineous Cas...
may i ask what glass and set up you used for this shot now im not speechless =]
Marleia Main replied
Hi again!! i use olympus camera’s .. stuylus 500 and a few other point and shoot types here and there and an e510 w/ a 300mm zuiko lens and a sigma 105 … I will be trying extension tubes soon!! Can’t wait … I think I used the sigma 105 for this .. outside .. dreary day .. with a good flash light .. Thank you so very much!! : ): ))))))
Stephen Kaak
Awesome capture
Marleia Main replied
hi Etienne .. Thank you so very much!! : ))
BigD
Congratulations, Marleia. It’s a stunning macro. BigD
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much Big D!!! : ))))))
Alan Findlater
excellent work well done
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Alan!! I really appreciate it : )))))))
wildrider58
Incredible MACRO!!! so sharp
Marleia Main replied
Thank you very much Wildrider!! : )))
Debbie Stobbart
Your macro work is tremendous!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Debbie .. I really do love my subjects : ) Always have been a bug fan : )))))
Mundy Hackett
gorgeous honey
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much Mundy : ))))))
clickychick
My goodness, this is truly amazing!!!!! The detail and clarity are superb and I love the angle! Incredible work!!!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very, very much Sarah!!!
Anibal
ddddddang…..O.K now I truley have to say that you are probably the best macro picture taker I have ever seen, you make BUGS look Good,
Marleia Main replied
Wow .. Thank you so very much Anibal!! : )))
failingjune
So adorable!!! Fantastic photograph! I want one of these cute bees for myself ;)
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much!! I love bee’s!! They are so photogenic : ))))
carlosramos
Absolutely flawless and true perfection in every aspect.
Carlos
Marleia Main replied
Hi Carlos .. Thank you so much for the comment .. I really appreciate it : ))
soniaj
wow, fantastic macro. really interesting seeing these little guys up so close
Marleia Main replied
Thank you very much Sonia : ))
Zoraida Pesante
This is Stunning! Beautiful SHOT! FLAWLESS!
Marleia Main replied
Hi Zoraida : )) Thank you so very much : ))
SandraRos
Woooow this is your second feature of this magnificent macro ! ! ! Congratulations my friend !
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much!! You have a great memory : ))))
lidwina
Amazing size. It’s like a monster,never seen anything like this. Good work.
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much lidwina : )))))
MPDurbin
Perfect level of detail, perfect depth of field, perfect subject, perfect SHOT!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very, very much!!!
Photomojo
I can’t imagine it getting better than this. WOW!!!!! Oh man now I really really want a macro lens!!!!!!!!
Marleia Main replied
Hi Photomojo: )) Thank you so much : )))))) It is amazing all the things you find to photograph when you have a macro lens!!
Crispin Gardn...
Superb macro Marleia, don’t get much better than this.
Marleia Main replied
Hello Crispin .. Thank you so very, very much : ))))))))
Stephie Butler
Oh WOW.this is even more awesome than the last one I commented on….fantastic work….
Marleia Main replied
Hello Stephie : )) Thank you so much for the comment and the fav!!
Ryan Piercey
Amazing image Marleia! Love your macro shots!
Marleia Main replied
Hello Ryan : )) Thank you so very much : ))))
Martice
Wow :)
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Martice: )) Busy this morning with Ginger’s Friends?? .. LOL : )))))
DennisK
great work
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much Dennis : ))) I really appreciate the comment!!
Arrowman
The best macro I have ever seen !
Marleia Main replied
Hello Colin : )) Wow Thank you so much : ))
tonymm6491
Great photo!
Marleia Main replied
Hi : )) Thank you very much : ))))))))
Ken Thomas
I want your lens!!!!! This is truly magnificent!!!
Marleia Main replied
Hello Ken : )) Thank you so much for commenting : )))
Tahnja
leaves one totally speechless, good grief you are amazing!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much Tahnja : ) Beautiful avatar!! What a great picture!!
Tahnja
aww shucks, thank you!
SylviaHardy
Oh boy, this one looks so cuddly! What amazing photography!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much .. He is my all time fav Bee ever!!
John Vandeven
Well done. Fantastic shot.
Marleia Main replied
Hello John : ) Thank you so very much for commenting and taking this guy as a fav : )))
Greg Carlill
Wonderful shot
Marleia Main replied
Hello Greg : )) Thank you so much for commenting: ))
Nic Relton
This is a good shot of a Megachile latimanus blah blah blah…. w /ev its a great macro shot and you rule! : )
Marleia Main replied
Thanks Slater .. I mean Relton LOLOL!!
Sensiworld
Beautiful, great macro !
Marleia Main replied
Hello Sylvia : )) Thank you so very much : )))))
Lyn Evans
Absolutely incredible
Marleia Main replied
Hello Lyn : )) Thank you so very much : ))
lorilee
Wow – this is an incredible shot!!!!!!!
Marleia Main replied
Hi Lorilee .. Thank you so very very much : )))))))
John Schneider
Unbelievable shot! Astonishing shot. John
Marleia Main replied
Hi John .. U r from Albany … How cool .. Hi neighbor!! Thank you so much : ))
ryenart
Incredible macro, Marleia! The details are terrific, well done!
Marleia Main replied
Hello .. Thank you for the lovely comment : ))
Trevor Needham
This is sooooo good. You have a lot of talent for macro photography (and good equipment no doubt). This is among the best insect close-ups I’ve seen.
Marleia Main replied
Hello .. Thank you so very much!! I really appreciate your comment : )) The truth is I am just getting into a better camera and lenses. (now I have a Nikon D300 and 105mm macro) Most of my older macro’s are w/ a 5mp point and shoot. It just takes patience and a steady hand ; ) Thank you again : ))
Paul Domaille
What can be said other than fantastic capture
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much Paul : )))))
linaji
My dear Marleia.. this is sublime. I love them so.. would you join our group..? enter this?

Marleia Main replied
sure thing : ))
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much for asking : ))
Tom Newman
Magnificent Macro :-)
Marleia Main
Hello Tom .. Thank you so very much : ))
Heather Mudge
wow! Very cool!
Marleia Main replied
Hey hotmomma : )) Love the name!! Thank you so very much for commenting on my work : )))
Dolf
I guess, all the previous comments speak for themselves, but anyway, have another one: “WOW”!
Marleia Main replied
Wow .. Thank you so very much for viewing my Bee!! I really appreciate your comment : ))
TBGPhotography
such stunning work. So vivid, wow
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much for the great comment!! : ))
Macky
Exceptional detail Marleia, a winner indeed!!
Marleia Main replied
Hello .. Thank you so very much : ))))))))))
Kasia Kotlarska
Excellent photo!
Marleia Main replied
Hello Kasia : ) Thank you so very much for commenting : )
Sandy Stewart
Not surprised to have to have scrolled down so far to add a comment! lol This is a stunning close up macro capture, showing off so much intricate detail information! :)
Marleia Main replied
Hi Sandy : ) Thank you very much for commenting : ))))
ej29
Thia is beautiful! fantastic capture…you do beautiful macro..your work is just stunning.
Marleia Main replied
Oh thank you so much!!! I really appreciate that : ))))) Thank you again : )
JuliaWright
Awesome awesome macro!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Julia : )))))
Luc85
Great image!!! Awesome capture !!!! Love how you can see all those hairs!!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much : )) I really appreciate you comment : ))
LisaR
This is absolutely amazing!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you Lisa : ) This is my favorite type of bee!!
shellbee
oh my goodness this is superb my dear
Marleia Main replied
Hello Shellbee : ) Thank you so very much : ))
leigh banks
such detial, reflection in eyes is awsome!!!!! I love it!!!
Marleia Main replied
Hello Leigh : )) Thank you so very much for commenting : )))
mlynnd
Wow, what a close up.
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much : )) I love this little guy!! My fav type of Bee by far!!
Leith O'Malley
National Geographic eat your heart out ;)
Marleia Main replied
WOW Thank you so much .. That is such a wonderful comment : )
Louise Robinson
Amazing! Great shot!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much Louise : )
Hans Goepel
Hi sera would you please revel to me! What lens you use for image results of this quality. “Please”. If you decide not to I understand
Thank you kindly for your time.
Hans from Perth Australia
Marleia Main replied
Hi Hans : ) Thank you so very much for you comment .. I will answer your bmail right now : )) Marleia
Hans Goepel
Hi Marleia. ….(I’m Deeply sorry for the TOW TME (SERA)..
Would you please revel to me! What lens you use for image results of this quality. “Please”. If you decide not to I understand
Thank you kindly for your time.
Hans from Perth Australia
Marleia Main replied
No problem : )
Sharon Mau
Oh my God! He is so beautiful!! This is the most outstanding macro!!
Marleia Main replied
Hello Sharon : ) thank you so very much for the lovely comment : )
StarKatz
Incredible! What sort of macro lens is that! It’s brilliant work.. so much detail and clarity, I can’t get over it! I’m blown away!!!!!!! :0)
Marleia Main replied
Hi StarKatz : )) This was taken w/ a 105 sigma and Olympus 510 .. I will be using a Nikon D300 w/ a nikkor 105 this year .. I can’t wait!!! Thank you so much : ))
StarKatz
Well you did good! I use the E300 Olympus.. would love to upgrade later.. maybe when I win Lotto LOL
Dean Mullin
well it took me a two minutes to scroll to the bottom of this page to leave a message!!! I guess there’s a reason for that though :o) THAT is a COOL macro – I can only dream of taking one this sharp. What lens/camera combo did you use?
Marleia Main replied
Hey How did I miss this?? Thank you so very much!! I use an Olympus E510 w/ a 105 and a nikon D300 w/ a 105mm lens : ))
MacroMadness
brilliant macro
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much for commenting : )))
manny
A truely amazing image, the detail is incredible.
Marleia Main replied
Hi manny .. Thank you so much for commenting on my Bee : )))
Vickie Burt
Wow Marleia, what a stunning photo.. just love the clarity, and the reflection in his eyes… definitely going straight into my favourites.
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Vickie : )) I truly appreciate the comment and fav : ))
John Wright
Stunning detail and color. Macros don’t get any better than this. The eye is fascinating.
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much John : ))
Scott Englund
Marleia Main replied
Hello Scott : )) Thank you very much for commenting : )))
Shelley Heath
Truly incredible image, love all its fury features.
Marleia Main replied
Hello Shelley :) Thank you so much : ))
Darsana
Absolutely amazing macro!!!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much :)
Jessica Hardin
This is so amazing!!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Jessica :)
Aaron Murgatroyd
Awesome macro, the reflection in its eyes is simply amazing!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much for commenting Aaron :)
naturelover
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much Naturelover : )))))
LindaR
just excellent ~ !!! congrats on being featured ~ so deserving!! xx
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Linda : )))
Andrew Trevor-...
Marleia, this is such an amazing shot. Well deserving on multiple features. Congratulations.
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much andrew for commenting : ))
Erik Schlogl
Very cute – brilliantly clear shot – instant favourite!
Marleia Main replied
Hello Erik : )) Thank you so much for commenting on “break time” I really appreciate it : ))
Dane Austin
Stunning indeed! Magnificent! That’s an absolutely amazing shot. :) :)
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Dane : ) I can’t wait for spring again!!!
Eyal Nahmias
Always loved this image. crystal clear, beautifully composed and tack sharp. Got my vote in the latest Natural Development round.
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much .. I really appreciate that : ))
Jay Ryser
Congrats on your win!!!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Jay : ))
Steve Bulford
WELL DONE MISSY!
WINNIING IMAGE FOR JANUARY – NATURAL DEVELOPMENTS GROUP
ABOUT TIME TOO.
Marleia Main replied
Hello Mister : )) Thank you so much : )))))
Eyal Nahmias
Congrats on the win. I always loved this image. And I’m glad to see that my vote counted… Well done. ;-)
Marleia Main replied
Thank you again very much : )))))))
Gili Orr
Congrats on the win! I see you/it has lots of fans;-)
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Gili : )) : ))
KarDanCreations
Wow, amazing details. Great job!!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much : )))
Nic Relton
Well done!!!! You are the best! : )))
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Nicholas L ; ) I really appreciate that : ))) xox
Macky
Congrats Marleia, well done, well deserved!!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much : )))))!!!!!!
Sharon Mau
Ho`omaika`i, congratulations on your winning entry with this exquisite shot, you know how much I love it and I am delighted to see you are receiving so many wonderful reviews!!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you, Thank you!! : )) I really appreciate your comment : ))
Auntymazza
Your work is brilliant, can you tell me what type of camera and lens you use for macro?
Marleia Main replied
Hello Thank you : )) I have a Nikon d300 w/ a 105 now but I used an Olympus e510 and a sigma 105 for this one : ))
David Friederich
Echoing all the comments from above, first let me congratulate you on your winning image for January, and then express my absolute fascination and admiration for your work.
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much David .. I really do appreciate that : ))
HenkStolk
awesome macro shot
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Henk : ))
cdudak
This is one awesome macro. It is so different when you see them this close, the details here are amazing….Kay
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much for commenting Kay : )) Bee’s are on of my favorite subjects!!
mlynnd
WOW, this is AWESOME!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much for stopping by and commenting on this little guy : ))
Charles Dobbs ...
I am not worthy! Outstanding work!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you, Thank you!! I really appreciate it so much : )))
Michelle *
Fantastic!!!
Marleia Main replied
Hello Michelle :) Thank you so much for commenting :))))))))
mc27
... just amazing!!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much for commenting mc27 :))))))
starikarp
fantastic macro!
Marleia Main replied
Hello :)) Thank you so very much :)))
Mick Davson
Featured in the Olympus 4/3 group
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much for featuring my Bee :0))
Voltaire Carlos
Man this is good!!! So ha kit do you use? You are defiitely a nature lover having quite a range of shots to alot of flora an fauna.
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much!! I use an oly E510 w/ a 105mm sigma, several misc oly camera’s. I just bought a new camera So we will see how I do w/ it this year. Thank you again :)))
Magee
Oh holy cow!! Best image…..................EVER!!
Marleia Main replied
Wow .. Thank you so much!! You are too kind :))) Thank you for such a lovely compliment :))))
Cheri Perry
What a magnificent capture…WOW! Very nicely done!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Cheri :)))) Thank you for commenting :))))
Carisma
Congratulations Marleia!! This is a real winning capture!! Stunning Macro!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Carisma :)) I really appreciate that :-))))))))
Marleia Main
Thank you so much Carisma :)) I really appreciate that :-))))))))
jwinman
?how? speechless…
Marleia Main replied
Well thank you so much!! I love macro and spend a lot of time studying my subjects!! :)))))))
Glenda Remaklus
Congratulations Marleia for being featured in Extreme Closeups. Your macro is outstanding. Fantastic job and well done!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much Glenda :)) Spring will be here soon!! I can not wait :))
Sharon Perrett
Wow simply stunning macro, amazing clarity and detail, beautiful bee
Marleia Main replied
Hello Sharon :)))):) I love these bee’s!! They are so cool to look at!! Thank you so very much for checking him out and for the fav :)))
jdmphotography
Ding-dong ! What a super image ……..
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much Jon :)
leigh banks
This on is so worthy of a feature well done , every time I see it I get the same reaction AMAZED!!!!
keep up the great work…......
Marleia Main replied
Thank you much Leigh :) Can’t wait for the bees to come out again .. pretty soon now :)))
Anna D'Accione
Incredibly beautiful macro. Well deserved feature, I have never seen anything so spectacular. Congratulations!!!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Anna :))
Tom Newman
This shot would have to be one of the very best macros on RB, it is outstanding , I have it as a favourite and renew my admiration each time I revisit it :-)
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Tom :)))))))
tonymarsh
This is an amazing macro. What lens did you use?
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much .. a sigma 105mm :))
Cherubtree
This is is an amazing macro. Curious about the lens you used on the Olympus.
Marleia Main replied
Thank you very much .. A sigma 105 :))
whalegeek
Spectacular image! What all of us aspire to capture. Well done.
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much for the comment :)))
Karen Tillotson
Holy cow…this is amazing…awesome…stunning…miraculous macro….instant fave…any closer and you’d be his lunch!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you, Thank you :))) I appreciate the wonderful comment :))
KevinH
Wow! So much detail, great shot!!!
Marleia Main replied
Hello Kevin :) Thank you so very much for commenting :)))
stephenknowles
Absolutely amazing, just had to add a comment.(I hope you win the bee on flower challenge).
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much for the comment .. I really appreciate all the support :))
armadillozenith
That is SO beautiful! I love bees, and this is a new kind to me. I think I have seen their work.. a row of neat cylindrical cases made from snipped pieces of leaves, all lined up within a channel in an old piece of wood. I am glad to let bees onto my hand, to free them if trapped indoors. Wasps too.. They are not always seeking to sting, far from it!
Thanks for this!
Marleia Main replied
I love Bee’s too :)) This one is my fav for sure!! What a little sweetie :)) I always save bee’s too :) Thank you for commenting!!
Martin Creely
Brilliant.. The near field focus is fantastic. How did you get the front elements, especially the eye and “beak?” in such hard focus, i am having heaps of trouble with this in macro work.
Cheers
Martin C
Marleia Main replied
Thank you :)) The main thing is to take a deep breath and hold it as you take a few shots .. Breathing makes it tough to keep your focus sharp .. I may not even use a tripod sometimes but I always hold my breath while taking photo’s :)) Hope this helps and thank you for commenting :))
Ralph Angelillo
Marleia,
With all the great comments shown above, the only thing I can say is that your
macro photography is fantastic ! Inspires me !
What macro lens do you use ?
Ralph Angelillo, Montreal, Canada
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much!!! I use a nikkor 105 and a Sigma 105 .. I am getting extension tubes and a flash system too very soon .. I love macro work!! Thank you again for commenting :))
DAHstra
Beautiful!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much :)))
Tallow
that is amazing. I just bought the nikkor 105 and was out taking shots of bees last night but they don’t stick around long enough to get a shot like that. Did you just focus on the flower and wait for a bee to land? Or are you that quick?
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much for commenting :)) I chase the bee’s around until they get used to me :-)))
Jan Stead JEMp...
CONGRATULATIONS ON WINNING THE MACRO UNTOUCHED CLOSE UP OF A BEE CHALLENGE
An absolutely awesome shot and worthy winner, particularly with the amazingly detailed and informative description you’ve added…I learnt a lot!!!
Oh, and I voted for this stunning beauty by the way!!..xxxx
: )
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Jan :)))
bubbleblue
Congratulations, EXCELLENT WORK.
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much :)))
cooljusher
Absolutely awesome!!! Congratulations!!! Is the lens you use a macro? I am looking at lenses for my Nikon D60 and aspire to the same closeness to the subject that you do. I look forward to watching your future photos with great interest, your definitely one of my favourite favourites.
Marleia Main replied
Hello :)) Thank you for commenting :)) I use a 105 :) I will hopefully be getting some more gear soon .. I really love macro work :))) Thank you again :) I really appreciate your comments :)
Rosy Kueng
Amazing macro!!! Congratulations on winning the challenge!!!! Well deserved…
rich details and clearness as well…well done!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much Rosy :)))
Rosy Kueng
Amazing macro!!! Congratulations on winning the challenge!!!! Well deserved…
rich details and clearness as well…well done!
Gavin Maginness
wonderful detail very beautiful
Marleia Main replied
Thank you Gavin :-)
SueAnne
OMG awesome….........................
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Sue :)))))
Christine Amstutz
What a beautiful shot! The bee almost looks a cuddly pet! Gorgeous Macro!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you very much christine :-)))
Shoaib .
WHOAAAA thats so crazy
up close and personal
amazing image quality too !! great work
Marleia Main replied
Hi Shoaib :))) Thank you so very much!!
blazeblaze
Saw this photo in a challenge and I just have to comment on it. This is one of the best macro photos of a bee I have seen yet!!! Beautifully capture!!!!!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much for the comment!! :-))
Svetlana Sewell
WOW, The best macro shot!!!!!!!!!!!!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much Svetlana :)))
Zoraida Pesante
Congrats on your win! Magnificent Marco Shot!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Zoraida :)) I really appreciate your comment :)
Hannah Fenton-...
This placed in the top ten in a challenge in
Bee and wasp passions
Marleia Main replied
Yea!! How cool :)) Thank you so much everyone :)))
Marleia Main replied
Thank you Hannah :)
shaneran
congratulations on winning the challenge in the Bee and wasp passions group and for your feature in extreme closeups!!! This is absolutely fantastic. amazing macro and marvelous capture!!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Shaneran :))))
Auntymazza
Congratulations, this is fantastic
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much :-)
tonymm6491
Congratulations! Great macro!!!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Tony :)))
tarynb
Very awesome shot! well done, it is incrediably impressive!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Taryn :))
Colin12
Very nice
Marleia Main replied
Thank you Colin :)
Melissa Fiene
Absoloutly amazing. Great job on getting so close!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Melissa :))
Cheryl Lunde
Absolutely amazing capture! Best macro I have seen, instant fave :)))
Marleia Main replied
Hi Cheryl :) Thank you so much for commenting and the fave :)
RickF
Fantastic macro!
Marleia Main replied
Hello Rick :) Thank you so much!!
Mark Maloney
Incredible magnificent
Marleia Main replied
Hi Mark :) Thank you so very much :)
Bunny Clarke
Magnificent! You have made this insect elegant and beautiful in your capture.
Marleia Main replied
Hello :)) Thank you so much for commenting :-)
Grant Scollay
Marleia your Photos are starting to Dominate my Favourite I list Love the detail
Marleia Main replied
Hi Grant :) Thank you so much for commenting. I am so glad you like my photo’s :)) Thank you again :)
Misti Hymas
WOW! Fantastic portrait!! I love the detail !!!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Misti :)))
Ginny York
Extrordinarilly beautiful capture! The detail is amazing. This is truly excellent photography! Love the write up too. Great work!! Instant fav!!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much for commenting :) glad you like the info too :)))
Lover1969
Wow!!!! I vote on this photo every time I see it in a challenge! This is one of the best macro photos of a bee I have seen yet!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much :)) That is so sweet. I am so glad you like him :)) He is my favorite type of Bee :)) Thank you again!!
Cheri Bouvier
Fantastic!!!
Marleia Main replied
Hi Cheri :) Thank you so much!!
John Kowalski
WoW!!!!
!!!!A most beautiful macro shot!!!!!Simply stunning Marleia!!!!!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much John :-)
John Kowalski
Sensational Marleia!!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you again :))))))
Nature's Realm
stunning shot. – Dennis
Marleia Main replied
Hello Dennis :) Thank you so much :-)
richman
WOW! .... er WOW!!!
Amazing detail, stunning work!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much richie :)
snappyexposure
Truly a stunning shot. Pure Brilliance
Marleia Main replied
Hi Paula :) Thank you so much for commenting :)
francophotos
What can i say?
Just incredible amazing!
well deserved wins and features!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much for commenting :)))))
Grant Middleditch
I’m just so happy to so this type of work. Wow!!!!!
Regards Grant.
Marleia Main replied
Thank you Grant for commenting :))
Gina Cormier
Magnificent macro!!!!!!!!!!!!! WOWIE!!!!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Gina :))
Larry Llewellyn
National Geographic Quality… out of my league. Instant Fav…
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much for your kind words Larry :)))
NAPaul
Stunning
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much :)
Shane Viper
WOW. Amazing creature. Beautiful image, well done
Marleia Main replied
Hello Shane .. Thank you so much for commenting on this guy :-)
Cat Kozich ©
Amazing macro!!!!
Marleia Main replied
Hi Cat .. Thank you so much!! :)
RobMcKay
Wow, really wow!
Great job!
Marleia Main replied
Hello Rob .. Thank you very much!!
roostalu
Amazing detail! A stunning photo.
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much Urmas :)))
May Lattanzio
One incredible shot. It is amazing. Olympus has come a long way from my first 35mm one, I guess. I’ve heard Sigmas are great lenses.
Beautiful work. Really stunning.
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much for commenting may :))))
Paul Morley
I have never seen anything like this before. Amazing.
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Paul :-)
gottheshot
I read your reply on focusing and holding your breath. I have just started insect photography with my lowly 18-105 – as I have no macro and as the ladybird is so small – the holding ones breath would seem to be the key I need.
Meanwhile – talking of furry insects that look like they are gonna take over the world. Detail – no words needed, unusual eye he has, superb in every way.
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much for commenting :)) Ladybirds are tough to get good pictures of that is for sure!! Good luck .. Can’t wait to see your future shots :))
Paul Kavsak
incredible detail and dof
Marleia Main replied
Thank you for commenting Paul :)))))))
hugo
what a good shot!!!!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much :))
KatsEye
Superb Macro. Not sure how you get so close and then to have such fine detail.
Marleia Main replied
Hello :)) Thank you so much!! I spend a lot of time outside looking for cool insects .. once I find them I just follow them around until they get used to me and then you can get as close as you want :)) I often will have them crawl on my hand first then I will put them back on a plant to photograph them .. at that point they are not bothered by you at all :)
Cindirelli
I believe this is the most beautiful bee I have ever seen! Plus, he has quite the chompers! LOL Great macro of an amazing bee. ~:)
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much :)
Paul Kavsak
wow – your macros are fantastic
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Paul :>)
MarianBendeth
So close I might get stinged! Thank you for sharing something so visceral!
Marleia Main replied
Hello Marian :) Thank you so much!! :)
Peter Denness
My wrist now aches from scrolling down,
Brilliant image.
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much Peter :)
Rabecca Primeau
Stunning my kids enjoyed looking at the details of this bee Amazing Capture
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much Rabecca :) I am glad they enjoyed him :-)
jwinman
truly amazing levels of detail! looking at your work always makes me want to buy a macro lens and try my hand at this… and that is very telling because macro, for the most part, does not interest me!
Marleia Main replied
Wow Thank you so very much!! That is a compliment and a half :-) I appreciate it :))
Béla Török
Brilliant macro work!
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much :))
chijude
Oh my goodness. This gives a whole new meaning to
“up close and personal”. Amazing camera work.
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much for commenting :-)
Pam Moore
!
!
AWESOME SHOT!!!
Marleia Main replied
How cute is that?? Thank you So much :-))))
Gloria Abbey
Unbelievable!!!! Fantastic Macro.
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so very much Gloria :))
emolena
Wonderful work ! Fantastic macro !
Marleia Main replied
Thank you so much :)))))
stooferdoofer 11 days ago
Oooh it looks so soft and fuzzy :)