Moth Photography | Feb 2026


Welcome to Moth Photography


Volupial Pyrausta (c) Photo by Steve Kaye, in Blog Post: Moth Photography

Volupial Pyrausta, a Moth, about 0.5-in (1.2-cm) long


Moth photography stands alone as a neglected, even odd, art form.

Certainly, few people would want to admit that they took photos of moths. Imagine making such an announcement at a party.

That’s because moths, unfortunately, have a bad reputation.

Now let’s be kind.

Moths belong to the same Order as butterflies (Lepidoptera).

Thus, they have much in common: They are important pollinators as well as valuable contributors to Nature.

They also come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes.

So there is a moth for everyone.

Now to be candid, taking photos of moths can be difficult.

First, most of them work the night shift (when it’s dark). And then as with any insect, they can be uncooperative.

For example, the moth in the photo below prefers to land on the underside of a leaf.

So finding one can be a challenge.


Inornate Pyrausta, a Moth, (c) Photo by Steve Kaye, in Blog Post: Moth Photography

Inornate Pyrausta, a Moth, about 0.5-in (1.2-cm) long


Of course, there are larger moths, such as shown in the two photos below.

Both of them helped by landing on either a wall or a window screen.

Notice the complexity and variety of colors on them.


Somber Carpet Moth, (c) Photo by Steve Kaye, in Blog Post: Moth Photography

Somber Carpet Moth, 1-in (2.5-cm) wingspan


Black Witch Moth, (c) Photo by Steve Kaye, in Blog Post: Moth Photography

Black Witch Moth, 4.7-in (12-cm) wingspan


This brings us to a challenge. I invite you to take photos of moths.

Doing this could even advance your photo skills.

Imagine: Taking photos of a flying Sphinx Moth could help you take photos of flying hummingbirds.


Sphinx Moth, (c) Photo by Steve Kaye, in Blog Post: Moth Photography

Sphinx Moth


If you accept this challenge, then you can begin your day by asking the famous question, “Where is a moth when you need one?”

Much success,

Steve Kaye

PS > National Moth Week will be celebrated from July 18 – 26, 2026.


Find More at:

Funny Birds

The Truth about Bird Photography and a Goose Update

The Bird with a Million Faces


Did You Know?

The most effective way to help birds is to buy land.

Here are three organizations that excel at doing this.

1) American Bird Conservancy

2) The Nature Conservancy

3) The Trust for Public Land

Please visit their web sites to learn about the work they do.

Here’s an excellent book: The American Bird Conservancy Guide to Bird Conservation


You can help – Please share this blog with others.
Inspiring Respect for Nature, one bird at a time.

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6 Comments
  • Brigitte Noel
    Posted at 14:03h, 28 February

    What a fun post! Thank you for elevating the humble moth and showing its lovely colors

  • Thilda Zorn
    Posted at 14:34h, 28 February

    Always lovely, always an inspiration, always surprising, thank you, dear Steve!

  • Daphne Radenhurst
    Posted at 07:52h, 01 March

    Thank you for these wonderful photos of moths, showing their intricate designs. I have transferred two of them to my desktop and am going to use them in my mindful art class. xx

  • Catherine Kaye
    Posted at 09:04h, 01 March

    A delightful introduction to the often over-looked and under-appreciated kingdom of moths. Thank you for brightening our day with more little notes on the beauty of nature.

  • Bob Franz
    Posted at 10:26h, 03 March

    Great photos. as usual, and typical of you finding beauty in unusual places

  • Kim Moore
    Posted at 14:37h, 03 March

    A MOTHerload of good photos and ideas. Thank you.