Flowers Anyone?

[Jim Cole]

Here's another version of the Orchids. This one is on 4x5 Acros developed in DD-X 1+6. I used a cream colored background here and changed out the more modern 150mm lens for an old no-name, brass 160mm Petzval at f/11.

Don't know which I like better.

[Edward (Halifax,NS)]

Here's another version of the Orchids. This one is on 4x5 Acros developed in DD-X 1+6. I used a cream colored background here and changed out the more modern 150mm lens for an old no-name, brass 160mm Petzval at f/11.

Don't know which I like better.

I like the one with the darker background much better.

[Roger Thoms]

Here's another version of the Orchids. This one is on 4x5 Acros developed in DD-X 1+6. I used a cream colored background here and changed out the more modern 150mm lens for an old no-name, brass 160mm Petzval at f/11.

Don't know which I like better.

Boy Jim it's a tough call, they are both outstanding. After really looking at both images I lean toward the darker background. But then I prefer look of the Petzval.

Roger

[jcoldslabs]

Jim,

I like the drama and contrast of the darker background (if one can have drama with orchids!). Both images are great, though. It's amazing how changing the background can change so much about an image. Quite instructive, actually.

What I like out both compositions is how 3D they look: the arc of the stem coming up from below and leading your eye to the hanging group of blossoms. I feel like I can reach out and touch them. I think the lighter background version has more of this quality. Lovely.

Jonathan

[Jim Cole]

Thanks for the comments everyone. I have one more variation. Sorry for spamming the thread.

Roger said that he liked the darker background, but preferred the way the Petzval rendered the flowers. I already had one more neg from this shoot using the Petzval with the dark background which is posted here.

I think both of the first two work for different reasons, the first image for its more straight forward portrayal and the second for its added emotional element. I'm not sure about this one. They are all, well, the same only different. I agree with Jonathan that this has been an instructive excercise. I believe I would have been happy with this shot if I hadn't seen the other two first. Funny how that works.

Next I will try to see if I can coax some closeups out of these beauties. I already had one attempt that did nothing.

[jcoldslabs]

Jim,

The contrast of the darker background draws more attention to the shape of the orchid petals (are they called petals if there is only one?) I like this one, too, though, but I can't offer a final verdict on a favorite.

And by instructive I meant for me as a viewer, too. Nice to see some side-by-sides of the same set-up.

Jonathan

[theBDT]

[theBDT]

A Triptych

[theBDT]

Last ones from this calla lily, I promise

[Philippe Grunchec]

... and the calla lilies are in bloom.