Story behind the Lens Discovered resting quietly on a column at the Reserve Center in Barrigada following a meeting, this impressive subject is Psilogramma menephon, commonly known as the Privet Hawk Moth or Large Brown Hawk Moth. Endearingly dubbed "Sweet Chocolate" after a fellow photographer’s nickname for the species, this substantial moth boasts a remarkable wingspan ranging from 3.25 to 5.5 inches (8.2 to 13.8 cm). This macro portrait captures a spontaneous, intimate encounter with one of Guam’s fascinating nocturnal insects resting in the warm light of the built environment. Composition This macro portrait emphasizes the intricate textures and earthy tones of the moth’s camouflage. Positioned vertically against the textured surface of the concrete column, the moth's swept-back wings display a rich tapestry of woody browns, deep charcoals, and warm chocolate hues. The soft, directional illumination highlights the fine, velvety scales along its thorax and abdomen, turning an everyday urban encounter into a striking study of natural geometry. Fine Art Quality To ensure the subtle brown gradients, fine scale details, and warm textural tones translate perfectly from the lens to your walls, I personally print each piece using the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100. I’ve selected three professional paper stocks to showcase the unique light and details of this photograph: Artisan Textured (Palo Duro Etching 315): My top recommendation for this piece. Adds a rich, museum-quality depth to the moth's velvety scales and the rough surface of the column, giving the macro portrait a classic, tactile fine art finish. Vibrant Metallic (Polar Luster Metallic 255): Enhances the warm, chocolate tones with a subtle sheen that reflects light across the rich wing patterns under direct room lighting. Standard Matte (Polar Matte 230): A clean, glare-free finish that delivers exceptional contrast and sharpness, keeping every subtle line in the wing patterns crisp and refined. Starting at $45.00. Available Sizes & Presentation Small (Nominal 8" x 12"): Printed on a 9" x 13" paper sheet with a 7" x 10.5" image area. Fits standard 12" x 16" frames using a 8.5" x 12.5" mat opening. Medium (Nominal 12" x 18"): Printed on a 14" x 20" paper sheet with a 12" x 18" image area (1-inch surround). Fits 18" x 24" frames using a custom 13.5" x 19.5" mat opening. Master Print (Nominal 15" x 20"): Printed on a 17" x 22" paper sheet with a 15" x 20" image area (1-inch surround). Fits 20" x 24" or custom frames using a 16.5" x 21.5" mat opening. Includes Free Domestic Shipping. Artist’s Signature Every print includes a border surround designed for ease of matting and safe handling. I hand-title each piece in the lower-left margin beneath the image and sign/date it in graphite on the lower-right—a classic gallery finish that marks it as an authentic TPegg Photography original. Bottom Left: Sweet Chocolate Moth Bottom Right: TPegg | 12 July 2024 Artist's Note "Some of the most memorable wildlife encounters happen when you least expect them. Stepping out of a meeting at the Reserve Center in Barrigada, I noticed this massive Hawk Moth resting calmly on a concrete column. With a wingspan reaching over five inches, its presence was incredible. I loved how the rich, chocolate-colored patterns on its wings contrasted with the simple texture of the building—a quick reminder that incredible natural beauty is always waiting nearby if you keep your eyes open."
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