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Orchid II

Study of orchids after summer rain.

Study of orchids after summer rain.
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DSC-S2100

Aperture f/5.6 ISO 100 Shutter 1/250

upload_date

May, 2014

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337

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+18

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Behind The Lens

Location

I found this gorgeous specimen in a conservatory during a visit with friends.

Time

This is my favorite shot, taken at night where the darkness allowed better contrast for revealing the rich texture of the petals. Surprisingly, it ended up showing more subtlety in the colors than would have been visible in daylight so the blooms look delicately rich.

Lighting

Nighttime truly gives a unique perspective on subjects but of course poses a challenge if indoor lighting is too harsh or the wrong color. For this one, fortunately the lighting source was mainly from sunlight-mimicking bulbs which lent a warmth to the subject. For the best texture, I lowered my lens until I saw the right balance of contrast so as not to lose the luminous look of the petals.

Equipment

For this shot, I just used my camera with no flash to avoid the blue look washing out the rich tones of the blooms.

Inspiration

This was such a beautiful image to capture that I didn't give myself too much time to overthink it because I felt that reactionary shooting would recreate the sense of the moment I first noticed this gorgeous flower. In a word, spontaneity was my inspiration!

Editing

None.

In my camera bag

I pack lightly for most excursions because I want to have quick access for those rare or elusive moments that need to be captured in the moment (and because I get tired of lugging too much around). Sometimes the subject is constant but the sky or other background will never look the same, for example, so that is not the time for stopping, digging, and setting up. I always have my Canon 35MM as well as a Vanguard VEO 2 tripod because it is lightweight yet sturdy. My favorite lens is the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 MACRO because it is more compact yet packs a great deal of power for capturing longer shots.

Feedback

I love spontaneity in nature but controlled settings (i.e. indoors) are not to be overlooked when the desired outcome is a truly isolated subject where you can control the lighting with minimal effect from flash and avoid alot of editing later. Taking your time, but not too much time, will yield a stunning image you can be deeply proud of while feeling as if you stumbled on a rare gem or once in a lifetime shot.

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LightBrigade

LightBrigade

Orchid II

Study of orchids after summer rain.

Behind The Lens

See more amazing photos, follow LightBrigade

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