Went to Ardenwood Historic Farm for a Photofriends photowalk. Mostly, the goal was to shoot Monarch Butterflies, as this is the closest place they winter (other relatively close places include Santa Cruz, CA and Pacific Grove, CA). As it turns out, most of the Monarchs were somewhere between 20-30’ off the ground, so having a long lens (and maybe some extension tubes) would’ve been a good idea. Typically, they don’t become active unless the temperature goes above 55F, and today, it didn’t quite make it to 55F. While we were there, there were probably 3 or 4 Monarchs who fluttered down. I had a good opportunity to use the MP-E 65mm f/2.8 when this Monarch fluttered to the ground. It was a good exercise in laying in the dirt, and moving back and forth to follow him as he hopped around. Focusing can still be a challenge but I’m getting better.

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