This is one of my favorite poses, second only to that moment when a butterfly peeks at me over the top of a flower.

Butterflies are complex beauties, such as this Eastern Tiger Swallowtail,  with many design elements competing with the surroundings. One of the tricks I have found when photographing them is to simplify the background as much as possible.

Sometimes simplification takes the route of minimizing color and background complexity.

When the background is busy, try to use a low depth of field.

Ok, so that sounds all intentional and designerly; in reality, sometimes you only get a fleeting moment in which to point and start shooting, hoping for the best. But then, wow is it fun when you realize you have a winner!

I was getting all wrapped up in the technicalities of butterfly chasing today when suddenly I realized I needed to lower the lens and simply enjoy them fluttering about my head. That is the true beauty of butterflies.

My childhood summers came flooding back. In that moment I experienced the simplification many of us long for.

So, stop and enjoy what you are photographing. Simplify and enjoy the impressions of life.

This post is a part of a weekly travel theme (Simplify) challenge by Where’s My Backpack.