Butterfly Photography

Another way to be crafty is through photography. I’m no expert, but always have my phone at the ready to capture the beauty around me. I seem to gravitate to things in nature and food (which I suppose is of nature too!) It must be the amazing color combinations and irregular shapes that catch my eye. I think it’s fascinating what Mother Nature can create.

Through the years I’ve taken several close up photos of butterflies, and the ones I manage to get in focus can be used for crafty projects. I have printed a few as 8 x 10 prints, framed them, and hung them up at home. Every time I pass one, they are a little pick-me-up to brighten my day.

We found this moth on the ground at my Grandma’s farm early one morning. We think it must have just come out of its cocoon and was still drying off, because it didn’t fly away when we got close to it. I had no idea how furry a moth body is! Even its antennae have little feathery flares.

This swallowtail was flying around my yard and I probably looked like a crazy person running after it to snap a photo when it landed. These are my favorite butterflies and come in many variations, all with the long ends at the bottom of the wings.

The next couple are all taken at our local butterfly house. The kids and I go there a few times every summer and we always get a beautiful show of color through the flowers, butterflies and caterpillars. The whole scene inspires me to add more butterfly attracting plants to my own garden.

One summer my daughter received a “grow your own butterflies” kit and had fun watching the eggs turn into caterpillars and then into these little guys.

Lastly, is the majestic monarch. I don’t see many of these, but one stopped by and blended in with my zinnia. You can even see its proboscis feeding on the nectar!

Stay tuned for a butterfly inspired crafty project featuring these beauties!