Macro shooting insects- Looking for tips

[Namerifrats]

Looking to advice and tips from you guys they shoot insects on a regular basis. I've seen some very impressive shots in the Macro forum. I have a Sigma 105mm EX (non DG). I don't have a Macro flash yet, but plan to get one in the future. Main question, is this. I know it takes a short time to set up and get focused on a subject. Now I've only had my Macro lens a day, but from playing around with it, I see that I'll have to get fairly close to my subject. Not what to you guys do as far as shooting an insect? After all, they are usually on the move constantly, and a flying insect may decide he doesn't like a lens moving close to him and flies off. Much less the threat of pissing off a wasp. At the same time, like I said, I've see some very impressive shots of flying insects, ants, etc. I know that I'll not get a good shot of every insect i set up on, or a shot at all with some. So I'm all ears!

[LordV]

Tricky question to answer. First thing to to just watch what the bugs are doing, get used to their habits. Even some of the flightiest bugs (eg ichneumon wasps) will settle down for a quick clean for a short period, or even longer if they have found a victim to lay eggs in.
You also need to learn how to approach bugs- some hints here -http://www.flickr.com/groups/macroviewers/discuss/72057594073223102/

Brian V.

[pturton]

To help build some confidence and not get discouraged, start with insects that are not easily scared off such as ladybugs and spiders. Use sweet bait to get ants busy eating or to make bees set on a flower for a longer time.

Build yourself a macro-flash using an external flash, diffuser, off-camera cord and flash bracket.

Practice and patience! You do not get to Brian's caliber without either.