Stelvio National Park

I am often asked why I spend so much time in the Alps. Quite simply, I never tire of the landscape or the flora and fauna. I have been going there for many years, and I’m always amazed at the sheer diversity of subject material. Stelvio was our base this year.

 

Nikon D810, 14-24mm ultra wide angle lens.

 

Nikon D810, 24-70mm uwide angle lens, composite image.

 

I have been extremely busy this year with my latest macro book due to hit the shelves later next month. It is an extensive publication at 320 pages and almost 300 images. There will also be an e-book version a short time later.

Stelvio is the second highest paved pass in the eastern Alps at an amazing 2,757metres (9,045ft) second only to the Col de I’lseran in the Graian Alps France which is higher, but not by much.

 

Nikon D810, 14-24mm ultra wide angle lens.

 

Nikon D810, 14-24mm ultra wide angle lens.

 

The weather was reasonable most of the time, but there were several thunderstorms usually in the evening.

 

Nikon D810, 200mm micro nikkor lens @ F8.

 

Nikon D810, 200mm micro nikkor lens @ F11.

 

Nikon D810, 200mm micro nikkor lens @ F11.

 

Nikon D810, 300mm nikkor lens, + extension tube @ F8.

 

The diversity of butterflies was excellent. Alpine Heath, Arran Brown, Dewy Ringlets were all commonly encountered at several sites. Glandon Blue, Mountain Clouded Yellow, Grison’s, Niobe, Mountain, and Shepherd’s Fritillaries were all seen and photographed.

 

Nikon D810, 200mm nikkor lens @ F8.

 

Nikon D810, 200mm micro nikkor lens @ F8.

Day-flying moths were also seen in most localities including Fox Moth, Burnet Companion, and several different species of burnets were all commonly encountered and photographed.

 

Nikon D810, 200mm micro nikkor lens @ F5.6.

 

Nikon D810, 100mm micro nikkor lens @ F5.6.

 

Nikon D810, 200mm micro nikkor lens @ F11.

Please watch for an update on my new macro publication due soon!