Was rather lucky with this DF- it was sitting on top of the back rail of a wooden bench by my pond. I put my left hand on the same strut and was just moving the camera lens into position on my hand when I spooked the DF. I moved back slightly but left my left hand in place and the dragonfly came back and landed on my hand. Then just a case of manoevering the lens onto my hand without spooking the DF.
Nice shots, it's weird how sometimes they will let you get away with almost anything and then at other times will fly away at the slightest provocation.
Thanks for the kind comments everybody - just a bit of fun.
Do find these darter dragonflies appear to have some personality in the same way as jumping spiders.
Ving - you are right - might have to try some photoshopping
Brian V.
priceless!