This has been taken with my Canon R5, 24-70mm lens. f/11,.6sec ISO 100. The "twirl" was taken at same focal length but 1sec shutter speed.
I have done something like this in the past and wanted to have another go. I bought two artificial Lilies meaning they do not die on me!!
Firstly I took a static image of the lily to use as the base. Then using live view I placed the lily towards the left side of the screen, set a shutter speed on a second. As the shutter is pressed I moved the camera which is what causes the twirl effect. Every shot is slightly different and it can become a bit addictive!! The two images were then combined in PS. With levels I made sure the BG was completely black and finished with a white stroke to contain the image.
7 comments posted
Kurt Reinhard
Very creative again Angela. We have intentional camera movement as a topic for my local photography club coming up in November. I will be sure to take a look back at this one. The shot is well balanced, and I like not only the key line, but how the stem is in front of the key line. The lighting is really good, and the ghost effect of the lily at the top is nice. The only nit-pick I have is maybe a little more shadow on the lily on the bottom. Very nicely done. Posted: 07/03/2026 00:07:19
Angela Bonner
Thanks for your comments, Kurt. Posted: 07/03/2026 13:16:55
Rose Norman
Very creative. I like that the front lily is sharp and the second one is an ICM image. Combining it makes it look like smoke coming out of the bottom image. Good composition going from one corner to the other. The black background makes the flowers pop and the key line finishes it off. Posted: 07/03/2026 17:11:53
Ellen Fisch
Very beautiful and magical image! The lily by itself is a "statement" subject and it is presented here wonderfully: diagonally to emphasize length and elegance and out of the frame for an enchantment. The plume of smoke enhances and distinguishes this image and gives it an enchanting vibe. Stunning, Angela! Posted: 07/03/2026 18:19:30
Doug Sampson
This is a sophisticated and genuinely beautiful piece of creative artistry that combines technical precision with painterly spontaneity to produce something that feels simultaneously photographic and ethereal - like a fine art ink drawing brought to life. Anchoring a sharp, crisp static lily at the base while its ghostly "soul" spirals freely above creates a captivating visual narrative of movement, energy, and transformation. The two-exposure composite is blended with real finesse; the transition point where the sharp flower meets its blurred twin feels completely organic and intentional rather than obviously composited.
Not much to offer here for improvements. This is a stunning image. Posted: 07/10/2026 03:50:34
Ian Ledgard
(Group 41)
A very striking image. You do great things in your home studio. Cannot fault this one. Posted: 07/10/2026 19:10:26
Jennifer Wu
Another creative and stunning photo. And learn how did you do 'twirl.' All I can say is 'WOW.'
Thanks Angela for sharing Posted: 07/11/2026 18:32:36
