It's a perfect time for indoor macro photography. Photographed in my garage, I used a single Lowel light with a reflecting umbrella. For me, macro photography requires a commitment of several hours. It's an evolving, artistic process. Many shots are taken until I reach the final capture. I started with a general idea of what I wanted. By first placing a Climatis bud on a black mylar sheet, I worked my way into the image by adjusting the light. I took some shots, moved the bud and took more shots. After other compositional adjustments, while paying close attention to the reflection, I added water drops to give the image a more dynamic feel.
The capture was made with a Canon 5DIII, Canon 100mm macro lens, f/32, 8 sec at ISO 400. Processing was done with ACR>PS and some limited use of NIK Color Efex Pro.
This round’s discussion is now closed! 11 comments posted
What a beautiful composition!! I agreed it is a perfect time for macro photography. I have been watching some macro photography videos on YouTube this year and doing some gear research. I have Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM and Yongnuo YN-14EX-C Macro Ring Lite in my wish list. Any comment/suggestion on my 'selection'? Posted: 05/05/2020 09:40:12
Dan Mottaz
Thank you, Jean. That Canon Macro you have is a very nice lens. I have the non-L version. It's adequate.
Posted: 05/06/2020 09:22:45
Ed O’Rourke
This image has a very positive impact on me and I think the composition is excellent. I like your positioning of the clematis bud and I think it makes a great point of interest. I am also impressed with the reflection of the Clematis on the surface below it and I believe your use of the water droplets and their reflected point of light each contains strongly compliments the overall image. For me your focus is tack sharp throughout and I really like the way the colors work together. Posted: 05/05/2020 12:49:43
Dan Mottaz
Thank you, Ed, for the positive feedback. I only wish that before I posted this, I would have put a thin border on to separate the image. Posted: 05/06/2020 09:20:44
Paul Smith
This is Photography as Fine Art. You labor has paid off. Please tell me where the light was positioned when you took the shot. I have attempted similar shots using "light painting" rather than a strobe. Your effect is extraordinary . Well done! Posted: 05/06/2020 10:25:23
Dan Mottaz
Thank you for your kind words, Paul. Essentially, the light was positioned over my shoulder and slightly to the right - nothing complex. Posted: 05/10/2020 16:53:04
Jan Handman
(Groups 34 & 77)
Beautiful image! The water droplets are mesmerizing. Worth all the effort and time for sure! Posted: 05/11/2020 16:39:41
Dan Mottaz
Thank you for visiting our group, Jan; and thanks for the nice words. Posted: 05/13/2020 11:16:53
Very Nice composition and exposure. The addition of the water drops makes a nice framing device for the reflection. Well done. Posted: 05/17/2020 12:02:41
Darcy Quimby
Dan
Sorry for the delay in posting.
I love the lay out and reflections. The water droplets look like they could be contact lens. You mentioned about putting a border around in my opinion I would leave it with out the border. I like the way the image blends with the background. Posted: 05/27/2020 20:14:20
