A few years ago, close to this time of year, I lead a group of apiarists (beekeepers) in a macro workshop. After a morning of learning, setting up equipment and some table-top practice, we had lunch and then set out for the hives. It was a sunny afternoon, but cool (about 16ºC) and windy, so the bees, although active, were not aggressive. We wore veils with vests, but otherwise, no extra preparation was done, and we could work without gloves. We exchanged camera equipment occasionally, so everyone could experience different macro set-ups. While I was somewhat cautious around the hives compared to the experienced apiarists, we all managed to get some good photographs by the end of the session.
Lurching Toward Oblivion 
Comments welcome.