If the butterfly is stationary, basking in the sun or nectaring on a flower:

• Approach slowly and take your first photographs from a distance to ensure capture of the image.
• Move closer, calmly taking more shots and being careful not to make any sudden movements.
• Try not to disturb the vegetation.
• Avoid casting sudden shadows - most butterflies will quicky fly away if you block the sun.
• Some butterflies will be watching your approach, whilst others will be so engrossed in the flower's nectar that you won't ne noticed until you're on top of them.
• With most mobile phones, you will need to be up close and tapping on your phone screen to ensure the best pictures in focus.

If your butterfly is moving:

• Follow as best you can, taking care not to follow too closely
• The butterfly may land up ahead, enabling photographs, or you may end up stalking it for quite a while.
• Patience often pays off, but some do just get away!

Capturing photos to prove identification

Even a photo from quite a distance can be enough to clinch an ID. If the butterfly is cooperative, it can be helpful to take both the upper and lower wings as these might have diagnostic features that separate very similar species.

Take your first photo from a distance before getting closer

This technique works well - one foot forward and slowly lean towards the butterfly

Please also refer to our Code of Conduct