Drosera rotundifolia, common sundew, is found around the globe in all sorts of bogs and marshes; but in the Southern Appalachians it can also be found on rocky outcrops in high elevations. Percipitation falling on these outcrops percolates downward with the help of gravity until it finds a way to the stony surface. In this way tiny wetlands – called “seeps” – are formed which become ideal habitats for these tiny splatters of carnivorous sunlight. Sundew leaves are coated with drops of a sugary, sticky mucilage, which to a small insect is just what the dietitian ordered. Insect walks in, lunch is served.
A focal length of 300mm provided magnification and the narrow angle-of-view I wanted. An aperture of f/22 provided depth-of-field; and a shutter speed of 2.5 seconds in windless air at ISO 100 gave me an overall somewhat darker-than-medium exposure that was tempered by a small, gold reflector.
The rock faces of these old mountains contain many treasures. One of these is a tiny plant called sundew.
Both fascinating AND beautiful!
There’s nothing “common” about these lovely little gems. Thanks for your note about the gold reflector. The gold suffuses the entire image. It’s a good reminder about how we can color and redirect the light to our advantage.
Wolf Mountain overlook? If so, I believe I have a few images of this wonderful plant in my catalog, taken over the last few years. NICE!!
Love this photo, Don. These little guys were mesmerizing as I witnessed them in Maine bogs. Thanks for reminding us of how fortunate we are here in NC, and for the reminder to put those reflectors to work!
The little flowers look like hungry chicks with their mouths open waiting for food to arrive. The gold reflector enhanced the contrast between the flowers and rocks. A very interesting look into a tiny new world that can easily be overlooked.
Good morning Everyone. Thank you all so much for joining me for this conversation. Today marks a full month since the surgery, and I believe we are beginning to see signs of real recovery, and I am encouraged to think that before long I may be able to think about picking up a not-too-heavy camera and doing a bit of work. If may yet be a few months before I can envision real concentration and focus, but I know it’s coming.
Hey J. Warren; it’s great to hear from you. Are you returned from your adventures in the Tall Trees? As a scientist, I had hoped you would relate to this Image. I know you would have fun in this place. Hope all is well.
Hi Donald. Thank you for taking note of the tip/suggestion. You have precisely described the usefulness of reflectors in many situations such as this. Imagine also using one to direct a bit of light onto the shaded foreground element of a wide-angle landscape. The possibilities are endless, and you are so right, these little biotics are anything but common. Walk in Beauty.
Hi Lynn, it’s great the have you join us. Yes, these are the Wolf Mountain Overlook Sundews. You know them well. I know you’ve enjoyed them as much as we have and they are, indeed, special. We would love to plan a rendezvous with you soon.
Hey Joani. Thanks for joining us. Yes, indeed, these guys can commonly be spotted in Maine bogs and to find them in our mountains is a particular treat, which is much less common. Thanks for taking note of the reflector use. A small one (11″) can easily be hand-held and highly useful. Have a great Holiday Season.
Hey Nancy T. As always, your description of the elements and principles at work here is right on target, and, of course, your metaphors are wonderful. I know you are drawn to the “tiny world” and I hardly think you would ever overlook it. I hope your visit with family continues to be filled with joy and love.
Thanks, again, Everyone. Your good thoughts and wishes continue to inspire me and motivate my wish to heal. Be well, Everyone.