Over the last couple of weeks, the unmistakable sound of cicadas has filled the air on hot, sunny afternoons. For me, cicada photography is one of the true markers of a New Zealand summer.
As a child, I remember trying to catch cicadas with my hands. It never seemed too difficult back then. Today, however, simply standing close to them with a camera is often enough to send them flying.
Why Cicada Photography Reveals So Much More
When cicadas fly between trees, they appear to be nothing more than grey insects. At first glance, they seem quite plain. However, cicada photography tells a completely different story.
Through the lens, their intricate wing patterns, subtle markings, and surprisingly vibrant colours come to life. Sunlight filtering through their wings reveals fine details that are almost invisible to the naked eye. This is what makes cicada photography so rewarding — it allows you to see beyond what you notice in passing.
Spending time observing before taking the shot makes a significant difference. The more still you are, the more natural their behaviour becomes.
Capturing the Sound of Summer
Cicadas are famous for their loud clicking or buzzing sound. When many gather in one tree, the chorus can be almost deafening. While you cannot photograph sound, effective cicada photography can still convey that energy and intensity.
At the local park, several large trees were alive with movement. The cicadas constantly shifted position to remain in full sunlight. Interestingly, many of them moved backwards along the bark rather than forwards. Watching this behaviour added personality and storytelling to my images.
Tips for Better Cicada Photography
If you want to improve your cicada photography, here are a few simple tips:
- Choose a hot, sunny day when cicadas are most active.
- Move slowly and avoid sudden movements.
- Observe first, then raise your camera.
- Focus on texture and wing detail for more dynamic images.
- Look for individuals positioned in strong light for better colour.
Cicadas may seem ordinary at first glance, but cicada photography reveals just how detailed and vibrant they truly are.
All the images in this post were taken using my Lumix G9II and Panasonic Leica 100-400 lens. If you have any questions or feedback, feel free to contact me through my website, or follow along on Facebook or Instagram.