These spider shots were taken at F-13 (1/60 second) - focal length of 300mm . with flash.  The web was over four feet across between a fig tree and a fence.  It didn't seem to be concerned that I was there......

Recently I've been interested in photographing insects and because I have so many plants and flowers in my back yard, I have the opportunity daily to just step outside and take my pick of dozens of these strange (yet beautiful) creatures.  Above is a common Californian Garden Spider that has created an intricate (and large) web where it sits and waits for its meals.  Most spiders will scurry away when approached.  This little (less than 1/2 inch) spider doesn't seem to mind my daily approach or the fact that I stick my lens within inches or the flash I use to illuminate this creature in the night. 

This Praying Mantis has made its home in a large hydrangea bush.  It's been doing a great job of hiding because it is now over three inches long.  This is a female Mantis and she doesn't seem to have as much patience as the spider above.  She'll allow me to approach; however will only stay still for a few moments.  I have to use a fill flash because it stays in the darker parts of the hydrangea bush.  I took this photo at F-16 (1/125 second), and with a focal length of 158mm (using a flash).   It was on the move at the time so there wasn’t much set up time.