Paul, did you check out the previous posts in the Photography section? My first response is that black backgrounds trick most auto cameras and also make for generally wrong exposed images. Other things to consider:
If you really are trying for closeups, get either a closeup lens or a closeup adapter filter for your current lens.
Softness of the image will be caused by one of three things: camera movement (shake); subject movement (wind, etc.) and/or bad focus. The best way to eliminate the first and last item is a good, solid tripod and careful focus. The middle one is best cured by getting up really early (before the thermals start) or moving the plant indoors out of the breezes.
Exposure is something learned over time, but all camera light meters are calibrated for 18% gray. That means they are expecting to see a balance nearly 18% gray (or equivilant). So if the subject is really white, the camera will underexpose. If the subject is really dark or black, the meter will overexpose.
There have been lots of other principles discussed here over the time this forum has existed. Please feel free to check out the many threads.
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Ross
http://orchids-ross.blogspot.com/
I don't do most Dendros or large, "floofy orchids". For me it's minis (like Angraecoides), Masdies, Paphs, and others that crept in somewhere along the line. See my orchid list for complete collection (usually not current.)
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