Richard Distlerath
July 2026 - PRETTY IN PINK
About the Image(s)
This image was captured in Kenilworth Aqautic Gardens in Wash DC. The lotus are blooming a little earlier this year. We decided to head out though the forecast was for light rain. This keep some people away.
We had beautiful soft diffused light. My OM1 Mark 2 with the 150-400 Pro @ 150 mm captured the image at 1/320sec, f4.5 and iso 200. I was very lucky to capture the bee as another anchor point in the photo. This lotus caught me eye with its radiating colors.
Image process in LR with standard color profile. I shifted the blacks and whites in color grading for a more balanced image as what I saw.
The gardens has some very old seed from Egypt for original lotus flowers. However these were not yet in bloom.
4 comments posted
(Groups 21 & 42 & 71)
Richard, this is an excellent image of a gorgeous lotus flower. The bee is a wonderful bonus that adds extra interest to the composition. The flower is beautifully sharp with outstanding detail, and the soft, non-distracting background allows it to stand out perfectly. Very well done! Posted: 07/01/2026 12:30:44
Thank you! Our yellow American lotus flower is not yet open....nor the Egyptian...I must head back for more after the heat drops a bit. Posted: 07/01/2026 13:00:47
The softness of your image struck me right away! Lovely flower in its color and sharpness. Love the bee! Excellent photo Richard! Posted: 07/02/2026 14:01:42
Stephanie Phillips
This is a beautiful image. I love the lighting and how it make the petals appear even more delicate then what they are. The bee and the peek of yellow in the center are added bonuses. Nice work.
Posted: 07/09/2026 20:00:01
Posted: 07/09/2026 20:00:01