Murphy Hektner, APSA
July 2026 - Stonecrop
About the Image(s)
Nikon D700 with Nikon 105mm macro lens - tripod mounted - ISO 640 - 1/320 sec. @ f/16 - cloudy - post processed in Elements - Photoflex soft-gold reflector used to reflect light into the flower grouping.
A number of various species spread across the Western U.S. The local name for this particular flower is Lance-leaf Stonecrop, it derives its name from the shape of the leaves. Usually found in dry rocky settings at high elevations in mountain ranges in mid summer.
6 comments posted
Very nice composition and the dark rocks really set off the yellow nicely. A bit more headroom perhaps, but very nice photo. Posted: 07/02/2026 17:02:55
Hi Susan: Pleased you liked the Stonecrop picture. I like to photograph our Pacific Northwest native wildflowers in their natural habitat. It is a challenge to find a grouping in the perfect habitat, as the habitat is part of the story. Posted: 07/08/2026 16:36:01
The background, foreground and main subject are in sharp focus. The leaves and flowers are contrasting colours. But what if you moved slightly to the right so that the flowers were in the centre? Or a square crop to bring the flowers in the middle? Posted: 07/07/2026 13:21:30
Hi Gaetan, thanks for your input.
I prefer using the rule of thirds in flower photography with the flower bias to the right side of the frame, Composition is very effective in this manner.
If you Google 'Rule of Thirds examples' there are many pictures showing how the rule of thirds was used with good effect.
Posted: 07/07/2026 15:57:16
I prefer using the rule of thirds in flower photography with the flower bias to the right side of the frame, Composition is very effective in this manner.
If you Google 'Rule of Thirds examples' there are many pictures showing how the rule of thirds was used with good effect.
Posted: 07/07/2026 15:57:16
Murphy, I jut got done shooting a bunch of flowers that are growing out of rocky soil. I love the hard and soft composition elements.I think your flowers are exceptionally crisp. If I was to be overly critical I would have boosted the yellow a bit to contrast more off of the rock. But again, that's overly critical. Love the image as is. Posted: 07/07/2026 16:55:06
Hi Mo: Really pleased you liked my habitat picture. I was exploring a new area just walking along looking, and there it was. Perfect setting, nice flower clump, soft lighting conditions. The scene had that hard and soft composition elements you mention. Once in awhile I am in the right place at the right time. Posted: 07/08/2026 17:01:30