Spring Mirage - (enlarge)

My Bearded Irises never seem to bloom long enough. The weather

has been windy and rainy nearly every day for about a week or

more. This particular day was extremely windy. I must have taken

over 300 shots easily. Few captures remain in the Folder. There

were not many moments between gusts of wind but I still consider it

good practice whatever the conditions. I think this one is

called 'Lothario' and is about 35 inches tall. When I discovered the

name of this Iris, I had to chuckle. It is quite hardy and reproduces

vigorously!!! Standing tall and proud, it's vibrant colors and velvety

texture are truly 'seducing'!! (sincere thanks for your visits and

comments, posted under Macro, kind regards, Gail)

I love it !!!

Thank you Florin, so good to hear you enjoyed this one!!

I really do: looks like a caterpillar, fresh, just out of the stylist ;)

Life is Wonderful ! 

Yes!! This Caterpillar wanted a Mowhawk!!!! ;-)

That was my first impression too, a worm. I feel that if something is interpreted differently in a nice way of what in reality is not, then the photograph must be good. I love the composition.

A very beautiful & interesting shot, Gail!

Best regards, Tina

Dear Gail,

This is very special! Again, your POV brings us into this world in such an interesting way, seeing features of the flower with a fresh perspective. I especially love the delicate, almost ghostly white petals in the background.

Beautiful!

Tim

Very pleasing colours, smartly composed, perfect choice for DOF!

this seems to me (G) one of your better iris shots- the selective focus is nicely off set by the smooth textured oof petals.Colors blend nicely as well. When it's windy - don't be afraid to pick one and bring it indoors to work on.

Cheers,

Excellent charming and attractive macro shot! Colors and details are awesome specially using a narrow dof. Excellent as always. Bravo.

Hamid.

A really beautiful result with very nice details, Gail!

Hail Gail Queen of the highly fertile irises! Truly sensual photographic art!

Love it

Tony

Gail,

Exquisite.  The bearded hairs stand out clearly & colorfully, great DOF.  Hard to do without blowing out the whites ... exposure spot on.  The rest of the colors are vibrant. Thanks for this one.

Rick

Hi Gail,

Your teacher is pleased.

Keep practicing. It only gets better with time.

Warmest Regards, Mike

her teacher ?!

"Maintenant je sais: je sais qu'on sait jamais..."

:)

A compliment Mike, of course, Dear Friend !

A compliment Gail, my dear ! BTW: Mike is ugly :)

Yes, Mike calls me often and writes many answers to the questions I have about my Macro shots and Photography in general. He has been a wonderful help to me. He is constantly encouraging me to do better and I strive to do just that. I don't always succeed but he knows that I am always trying. He is a good friend, even his wife Betsy encourages me when I talk to her. He has been invaluable actually when it comes to many problems I have encountered not only with a lens but in teaching me much about the lenses that are available for the Canon EOS System. I have much to learn about the 'camera' itself, and he has been very patient knowing my limited knowledge.

My husband and I hope to get down to Florida soon and visit some friends of ours, and hopefully we can drop in on Betsy and Mike for a little 'koolaid' and good conversation on the front porch. A big treat would be to look through a few of his telescopes and I may even get a Photography lesson or two at the same time. Can't think of anything I'd like better. It has been awhile since we have had a Holiday!!!

Sincere thanks!! I am always so anxious before I post an image. I am so pleased that you found this one to be an improvement. I hopefully can only get better!!!

Your comments are received with thanks and I do appreciate you taking the time to let me know your thoughts on this image! Many thanks, Gail ;-)

Lovely fresh colours and a great perspective ...........The name of the flower always stops me in my tracks...........no one called "Iris" should have a beard : - )

Beautifuly done Gail!

Best Regards

Alf

You are so right!! and if it is also known as 'Lothario', he shouldn't be called Iris as well!!!! Many thanks for your visit Alf, always enjoy your input!!!

system rules ! I know it. Nikon rules too... I married EOS: matter of taste.

Mike has a tremendous collection of living peppers. 

Please remember him, when you get there, to post me some seeds ;)

I respect Mike with all my heart and he knows that !

You did it, I'm enjoy it! Great capture in all given aspects, Gail!

I certainly will try to 'pry' some Pepper seeds from him, or at least Betsy!!! if we make it to Florida. But can you mail 'seeds'???? like that???? They are so hot they may be considered Contraband!!!!

Thank you Grigoriy!! Your input is always encouraging!!!