John, I really like this image. In particular the intersecting lines, the gradations of Green, the sharp focus and highlights in the foreground with softer contrasting whites in the background, the very fine hairs on the outer edges, and of course the water droplets. I also like how the Orchid is tilted a bit to the left. I don't think I would be as drawn in if it were composed straight up and down. The only thing I might do to this super nice image is get rid of the out of focus green spots on the upper and lower right background and just go with a complete black background.   Posted: 04/03/2025 00:23:25

Like the patterns and colors in this orchid and I agree, the diagonal orientation works well. I might crop a little off the bottom as I think the thick green stem overwhelms the photo some and the upper part is so nice   Posted: 04/04/2025 03:53:57

I would agree with the above and that the relatively bland green stem is less attractive than the flower, so I would crop to place the centre on the 1/3 line.   Posted: 04/10/2025 08:12:45

John, the crop and the patterns on this "study in greens" really work! It appears to be very sharp without being oversharp, and the depth of field is really great. The slight tilt to the plant also works well for this image. For myself, I did not see anything against the background that would disturb me as a viewer, and I liked the extra room you left below that last ?stem, so I wouldn't crop any more personally...but it is most important what you see and feel when looking at this. Beautifully done!   Posted: 04/10/2025 20:46:25

The 1.4x macro lens is definitely an asset in capturing the essence of this beautiful Orchid. The story is saying to me the already, but not yet. I love the leading lines as well.   Posted: 04/18/2025 18:14:02

Wow John such a beautiful macro image. I love the color combination and the water drops add to the beauty of the detail. The leading lines are perfect going towards the center. An inspiration...   Posted: 04/19/2025 21:10:05