Thank you Willie and John for your comments - I'm glad it hit the right note. I know these subjects aren't everyone's cup of tea but I always enjoy the challenge they bring!
The modification from Willie certainly gives the effect that I had envisaged, with the creatures background detail engulfed in the gloom beyond. I've not got photoshop but I'll go back and see if I can use a paint tool as you suggested.
I'll also give the pinhole approach a go - I haven't tried that on such a little subject for ages...

Thanks again for taking the trouble.

Chris

Fab. I'm no train buff but there's something quite captivating and awe-inspiring abut these particular beasts in their natural open environment!

Good composition - and no sign of shakey hands for sure. Wish I could say the same for myself! Great pic.

Thanks Moira,
I won't be abandoning the pinhole anytime soon, though I agree that the choice of subject is important. Small subjects are never too far from my mind for experimentation if I think there's potential for an abstract or impressionistic quality. A pinhole attempt on a dead wasp is among the earliest pictures in my gallery.
Chris

Hi Erik,
The main reason it was framed so closely at the top was to hide the apparatus holding the shell in mid air at that extremity! I always find it takes some effort to hide the support for this type of set up.
I appreciate the focus comment - always difficult with the limited depth of field to pick the right point. I was trying to use the shadows in the soft area to maintain the sense of form but I was afraid the focus looked a bit "imbalanced" across the image. Worth another try for sure.
Thanks for looking and taking the time to comment.

Chris

Thanks for looking and for the encouraging comment - glad it made an impression. I have a colour version but felt the graphic quality best suited b&w.

Thank you!
It is indeed a holly leaf, struggling valiantly against the forces of decay. I hadn't noticed one like this before so naturally out came the camera... Tried various perspectives but this was one of the best.