Photographing Flowers

I've been known to blow through numerous hobbies throughout my adult life.  That's somewhat of an understatement!  But photography and flower gardening have stood the test of time, and it's fortunate that they work well together.

Here are a few tips for photographing flowers if you are so inclined.  First, any time you are going to shoot a close up of flowers (or anything for that matter), it's wise to use a tripod.  The closer you get to the subject the smaller aperture you will want to use. This will allow you to increase your depth of field.  In photography, a small aperture means a larger number (i.e. F16, 22, etc.)  Because you are using a small aperture, you will also be using a slow shutter speed.  So that can lead to camera shake and blurry images.  So, if possible, use a tripod.  A macro lens can also be a big advantage as it helps you get really close and still keep the subject in focus.  I prefer to shoot fixed focal length macro lenses for close ups. As most of you know, all photography is about light.  I don't care how good you are, if you take a photo in full sun at high noon, you will be disappointed.  The colors wash out and the image looks dull.  The low light of early morning and late afternoon is always best.  When I shoot nature photography, I typically put my camera away in late morning and then don't make any attempts again until late afternoon.  Sidelight and backlighting almost always help make great images.  One last tip, the placement of the image in your finder is also a key.  Ideally the "rule of thirds" is best in any photography unless you are shooting close-ups. The image above of the "butterfly bush" bloom is a good example as the bloom is not dead center, but about 1/3 of the way into the image.  Also note the placement of the bumblebee below on the purple coneflower.  There are a few other close-up examples from our garden shown below.  So, this year when you are admiring the "fruits of your labor" in the garden, grab your camera and take some great shots!