Yes, it is true. This winter has forced me to look for items I normally would not consider photographing. Now, I like walking out in nature when it isn't so frigid and finding things to photograph...and it might even be a flower or two. But I don't usually look at cut flowers in a vase and think "I'm going to photograph those!"

I found myself actually inspired when I noticed the mid-afternoon light shining in through the Dining Room window and bathing the bouquet in a nice golden glow. I dug out the camera and tripod and quickly went to work before I talked myself out of it. I mean, I can always consider it good practice.

Here was my first attempt:

Not too bad. I didn't need to use any lights, flash, reflectors, etc. I just positioned the vase to soak in the light where I wanted it. I also attached an extension tube to the 100mm macro lens to get in a little closer.

I played with the red flowers for a bit, then focused on one of the yellow flowers.

I ended up liking this one even more. For some reason I was getting nice texture in the yellow. Perhaps it was more noticeable without the red color competing for attention; I don't really know for sure. I thought about cleaning up the "mess" on the bottom petal, but decided to leave it.

Then I wanted to tackle one of the yellow roses. But I didn't want a typical shot from above into the center of the flower. I wanted to find something a little different. Here is my favorite from that flower.

I really like the light and shadows playing well together. I tried to keep the softness of the flower yet still have detail and sharpness where needed.

For those that have never tried close-up photography or even macro, I would recommend it. It really forces a person to look at the surroundings a little differently. I could go into a discussion about focusing with a macro lens, establishing good Depth of Field, etc, etc. But even my own eyes start to glass over at my own conversation. I'll save that for another time. If someone really wants go in-depth in a discussion, feel free to drop me a line. For now, I'm just going to enjoy my flowers.

John