Photography - "Snails In The Rain"

If you grow Hostas, you might not like these little dudes, but snails are terrific subjects for macro photography.

I've shot snails in a variety of mini studio set-ups over the years. They make great subjects for loosely conceptual shots, which sell well as stock. These snails were placed on a wet tile and shot as they curiously explored the scene. The rain was added in post.

As models go, they usually don't have the same diva tendencies as humans. Like any good model, snails will happily munch on some lettuce in the green room while waiting for you to get set up.

Of course, here in Ireland the weather changes at the drop of a hat. Wasn't long before the sun came out and it was time for fun.

Seriously though, this skateboarding snail is one of my better selling stock images. I guess there is a loose concept of speed, getting places etc. The sky was superimposed. It obviously looks a bit cheesy, but for whatever reason, it seems to resonate well with Shutterstock customers.

When I'm finished with them, the snails are carefully placed back in the garden bushes.