L i l y

Because of the DOF, the point of focus that shows the most texture in the petal is too centered for me to make this composition as good as it might be. Perhaps if the point were rotated to be in the upper third it might work better. Seems to me it would make a sexier curve and make the feeling a little more calming.

Other than that I like the photo. The shading works and all the black space around the flower helps define the shape.

Onyo

Rotated lily

As a photo this has the nice classic approach. I also like onyo's ver. but because of shallow DOF. I am seeing texture only at the tip of the lilly. I guess a macro approach would've shown the textures more, of course, not all of us have the necessary equipment (including me :-) and also some lenses can't focus so close either. I see your point though, PT.

 

Chitra

I also like better ONYO version, because of the reasons he stated. But still, overall, you nailed the exposure and choice of subject, so kudos for this!

 

As per theme fit, it is excellent. And with some little modifications, it is a shot that could look nice hanged on a wall.

Nice toning and interesting interpretation, PT; this is a favourite flower of mine so I appreciate the textures and the way the exposure seems designed to showcase the flower and nothing else. The droplets far right speak of recent rain or morning. I would burn down the twigs (?) just to the left of the trumpet.

I wasnt trying selective dof here and can't really say why I didn't use a deeper aperture. I was disappointed with the focus when I saw the result. Thanks for the alternative Onyo I can see how your idea makes sense. Thak you all for your encouraging comments.

The dof may be off but I think this is still a very good photo. It screams clasic and elegence.