Taken at The Botanic Garden of Smith College

Beautiful flower! The middle of it is so intriguing - I'm wondering if a much tighter crop might be more interesting.

Hi Cal,

Very interesting flower. It is quite striking. I wish the light were a bit softer, but at a botanical garden you probably can't have your choice of timing. Still a very striking flower and entry.

Fascinating flower, Cal! I guess that's what Botanical Gardens are for. Out here at what is called the "Huntington Library" - a huge botanical garden/art collection donated to the City of Pasadena by the railroad baron Huntington, there is currently one of the rare Corpse Flowers about to bloom. It's a big deal and when it does, they will start issuing tickets for the huge crowds to come see it. Personally, I'm not too excited about going to look at a big purplish red flower that stinks of rotting flesh, but the flies will all love it.

I, too, think a tighter crop might help mitigate some of the harshness of the noonday sun. Still, it is a very pretty capture.

All best wishes,

Endre

Agree with ya'll about the harsh light. I had the 20D, tripod and all the kit - including a silk hoop diffuser - in the car, but on our walk through the gardens I was "going light" with just the G10 and a circ polarizer. When I went through the shots at home I kicked myself for not realizing the potential in this one and going back to do it over.

A very interesting looking flower. Kinda gothic.

Chad