Raj Panandiker
June 2026 - Bat at the Banana Flower
About the Image(s)
My first attempt at multi-flash photography in pitch darkness. They put sugar water on the flower to attract the bats. I wonder if that makes the image “staged” and disqualify for ND.
Shot with 100-300mm lens with a 1.4x converter at 390 mm
1/180 sec; f/13 ISO 250
Minor processing in Photoshop
3 comments posted
Deborah Albert
Absolutely lovely image, perfect moment, though I do have concerns about staging. Posted: 06/13/2026 06:31:42
Raj, this is a delightful image. I really love the even lighting. The placement of the bat is great. I do wish for a more interesting wing position but I also understand the challenges of low key photography and I assume you were not able to shoot a burst. I would love a tiny hint of detail in the BG, but suspect that is not possible.
As for staging, that is actually fine in ND. This year's rules state that we are not allowed to use food to attract animals for photography, but that is mostly ignored.
I would not hesitate to enter this image.
Lillian Posted: 06/13/2026 17:17:13
As for staging, that is actually fine in ND. This year's rules state that we are not allowed to use food to attract animals for photography, but that is mostly ignored.
I would not hesitate to enter this image.
Lillian Posted: 06/13/2026 17:17:13
Richard Fisher
As Lillian says, excellent image. Anyone who has participated in night flashes will understand how these images are made. Only thing I can suggest is a still increase in the eye highlight but that is a very minor nit. Posted: 06/15/2026 09:52:50