Photographic notes A long, close-focussing lens is best; a medium telephoto with an extension tube works well but a macro lens is more convenient to use. A firm tripod is essential because shutter speeds are often slow, up to half a second. Care needs to be taken in manoeuvring the camera and tripod into position, making sure that the butterflies’ wings are perfectly parallel to the film plane, allowing a wide aperture, which throws the background out of focus nicely. Fine-grained film with vibrant colours gives the best results. All photographs accompanying this article were taken with a Canon EOS1N body, 180mm macro lens, Fuji Velvia, Gitzo tripod and head. All pictures were taken between 1998 and 2001 while leading tours for Hosking Tours.   BACK