Anita's Photoblog
Red Dahlia in Vase
Posted by Anita (West Nottingham, United States) on 4 November 2009 in Plant & Nature.
I appreciate criticism of my work, especially if it is constructive. It is one way to grow as a photographer.
This is one of the last red Dahlias from my garden. In real life, it is actually a bit darker. I added one of my textures.
*****THANK YOU FOR VISITING ANITA'S PHOTOBLOG!*****
I welcome your honest critique, especially if they will improve my photography.
If I have made a mistake in a flower identification, please let me know!
A few words about the EXIF data, beginning in April when I began using Nikon D300 and the Sigma 105mm macro: My new camera and macro lens record the relative or effective f stop, not the one seen on the lens. For an explanation of this, go to the next to the last question at this site.
Dulcie from Danville, CA, United States
A dreamy image, especially nice with the fallen petals. The texture is perfect !!!
4 Nov 2009 6:57am
Tomas Turecek from Czech Republic
Just yesterday I walked through your portfolio and was again in awe when looking on images of flowers in vase similar to this.
Regarding this photo, I really like the mood, composition, colours and lightning but I have mixed feelings about the theme. I feel that there is a strong contrast between the fresh dahlia in the vase which is like a symbol of life and then those torn petals, slowly dying by the feet of the vase like a symbol of death. It disturbs me, this strong contrast. I would rather see it without those torn petals. But maybe it's only me where's the problem and not you photo. Maybe you could mention if there was some deeper idea behind the image?
And by the way, I posted a red dahlia photo today as well, nice coincidence :)
4 Nov 2009 9:39am
@Tomas Turecek: Tomas: Thanks so much for your comments and visit! I'm always interested in people's reactions to my images. I see what you mean about the conflicting messages in the image. There was no deep idea behind the petals. One of the Dahlias lost some of its petals and they fell around the vase in this manner. I loved the look and recreated it with another Dahlia. You have given me something to think about.
Sue from Paducah, United States
I don't think my reaction went quite as deep as Tomas', but I did briefly wonder "why" the fallen petals with such a fresh Dalia. I love the subtle golden tone of the texture highlighting the blossom.
4 Nov 2009 11:05am
@Sue: I really appreciate your thoughtful comment as it helps me think more about what I'm doing and why. Sometimes I do things just because they look nice, and fail to see how it might not work. Please keep your thoughts coming my way.
Betty from Phillipsburg, United States
Again, really beautiful processing. The pink is so soothing.
4 Nov 2009 11:06am
MJ from Delaware, United States
I love your composition... I love the reflection of the petals through the vase...I personally think it show the way of nature and life...... life and death beautiful colors
4 Nov 2009 12:37pm
Mary from Exton, United States
Anita, I really like your artistic vision with this image.
4 Nov 2009 1:28pm
Barbara Kile from Ft. Worth, United States
Lovely presentation Anita! Love the colors.
4 Nov 2009 3:01pm
Frida from Sweden
This is one of my favorites of your. Beautiful presentation Anita.
4 Nov 2009 6:34pm
Carsten from Copenhagen, Denmark
Your post processing is perfect. And your idea and composition is outstanding.
4 Nov 2009 10:01pm
Susan from Fort Lauderdale, FL, United States
Lovely composition, and the texture works well!!!
4 Nov 2009 11:30pm
Ed Vatza from Lehigh Valley, PA, United States
Excellent image, Anita. I must say that your well thought out compositions are just superb.
5 Nov 2009 11:47am
Marilla from Turku, Finland
I think the lovely red dahlia needs some contrast to the background - now it loses its power because everything is red around it. I'd like to see it against white or black.
On the other hand, if you'd do like I suggest it wouldn't be your piece of art!
5 Nov 2009 5:18pm
@Marilla: I always welcome suggestions. You aren't the only photographer to say they would prefer more color contrast.
Nikon D300
3 seconds
F/18.0
ISO 100
157 mm (35mm equiv.)