Riverside Thistle - (enlarge)

I was on one of my walks in our Ecology Park the other day and saw

some beautiful thistles along the river's edge. They did not appear

like the usual Scottish Thistle and while researching them I found the

most similar one to be an Artichoke Thistle. I could be wrong and will

keep researching. Either way, they are very beautiful and were a

highlight of the day. (always appreciate thoughts shared, many

thanks, Gail :)

I find it difficult to do black and white versions of flowers since the color is so seductive. You have done a good job here. Congrats.

I hardly ever do black and white at all. While I was processing, this choice seemed to really 'speak' to me for some reason.

A beautiful b/w result, Gail!

 

Gail,

An excellent black and white result, love the dof. Indeed, color is seductive photographing flowers but do not underestimate the power of a good black and white image. Great result.

Kind regards,

Herman

 

 

Nice capture and great detail. i think the B&W works in this case. To many times we forget that there are varietals of flowers and never take th etime to do the research to find what the actual plant may be. Cudos for taking the time to find out that this is more than just a Thistle.

Hi Gail,  you inherited your father talent, proved in your portfolio.  It is a joy to see al those images one by one. Even in the first page, I noticed your  beautiful works.  So, I going to spent the next hours to see the rest of them,  having plenty of time, recovering at home from a shudder operation just yesterday.

I be back,

Bela

 

Hi Gail,

  Beautiful creative image with amazing details & lighting.  Excellent work!! Take care, Patsy

Superb, Gail, one of your best. It has the feel of classic photography combining sharp detail with an air of impressionism. The monochrome is a surprising choice but works beautifully here. An absolute winner and a place in my favorites.

A very nice photo. I think making it b&w was a good choice. It's interesting how different the dynamics can be with color vs b&w.

Very nice B&W image Gail.

Thanks Brent, appreciate your visit :) Gail

It actually is quite pretty in colour but when I decided to try it in Black and White, I liked it.

Thank you Jack for your positive thoughts shared. You have such a way with words when you are considering a photograph. Mind you, I feel you have a good grasp on Fine Art and Photography and it always translates into your Critiques in one way or another.

Much appreciated, Gail

Sincere thanks for stopping by and taking the time to share your thoughts on this composition, truly appreciate your input.

You are too kind. But - thank you. My father is much more talented than I but I do try to learn what I can from him. I hope while you are recuperating that you have time to look at many portfolios, it sure helped me when my shoulder was broken, but typing was too difficult for me at the time. I hope you have a speedy recovery!

beautiful. edges out 'Angry Sky-Tornado Warning' as your picture on my favourites page. best, jamie

Hi Gail, for me and my poor English si not easy to describe the sensations that I feel when I look a Photo. But I can assure that your images are amazing and full of passion. All the best! Max 

Lovely work, Gail! 

I'm not sure that I like such a shallow DOF , but it grabs attention ! Bill

Beautiful my dear friend :)

Warmest regards,

LuDa

Sincere thanks for your visit and compliment shared my dear friend. Look forward to talking to you soon! :) Gail

There was only green in the background so I added another background. I usually shoot at f/2.8 with my Macro. Tried other settings while shooting these thistles and did not notice a big difference because I was so close.  I'll see what I can do when I visit that spot again to Photograph them if they are still there. Thanks so much for the advice Bill!! Appreciate you taking the time to offer assistance. Talk soon, Gail

Was so pleased that you liked this one. I did not quite expect such an enthusiastic impression but I'll accept it :) I'll visit soon, Gail

Your English is fine and your convey your feelings very well. Thank you for this very sincere compliment-you have no idea how much it encourages me.

With much appreciation, Gail