Central to this work, of course, is the ladybug! Even though the image is filled with the yellow of sunflowers, the ladybug is the hero in this story. This ladybug is one with seven dots. She has a bright red cover shield. This species seems to be the most common. At least for me, it is how I know the ladybug: red with seven black dots.
I find this photo so special because its thin legs are very clearly visible on the yellow of the sunflower. It is a portrait "en profil. The snout is groping the petal and three of the seven dots can be seen. On the other side, she also has three dots. The seventh dot is in the middle, just below the "neck.
This ladybug was kind enough to pose for me. One summer day I had reserved an entire day to take photos in a huge field of sunny yellow sunflowers. Of course I saw many ladybugs, but no one wanted to sit quietly for a while until I was ready to take their picture. Until this one. Very thoughtful and I thanked her very much.
By the way, the seven-spotted ladybug is also sometimes seen as a good luck charm and symbol against senseless violence.
Since about 1974, I have been involved almost daily in photography, drawing (charcoal, graphite, conté, chalk, ink), painting, watercolour and/or collage making. In all these branches of visual work, I have tried a lot, found my own way, but.. Read more…