I have a Nikon D300, with a macro lens. Learning how to get close to butterflies takes a lot of practice and patience. And every species is different in the ways you approach them. Some you have to just chase, some you wait to see if they will come back to nectar. It just takes time observing and practicing to learn what works.
my butterfly collection 
Oh, you got the male and the female! And they are on their obvious host plant, Nasturtium.
Yes, I love it when I get both!
Lovely! Which camera do you use for your photos?
Also, how do you get so close to the butterflies without them flying away?
I have a Nikon D300, with a macro lens. Learning how to get close to butterflies takes a lot of practice and patience. And every species is different in the ways you approach them. Some you have to just chase, some you wait to see if they will come back to nectar. It just takes time observing and practicing to learn what works.