Looking for input from orchid photo experts - Orchid Board

gparr · #1 (**permalink**) 02-25-2009, 12:15 AM

I'm new here, but not new to photography or flower photography. I enjoy photographing orchids and do so somewhat regularly at Oak Hill Gardens in W. Dundee, IL. I would appreciate some feedback as to what makes a good orchid photograph, i.e., what are the features to emphasize and what should be avoided. Here are four of my recent shots.
Gary

Miltoniopsis Keiko Komoda

Paphiopedilum lebaudyanum

Dendrobium glomeratum

Phalaenopsis Sogo Grape “Fireball”

masda · #2 (**permalink**) 02-25-2009, 01:44 PM

I wouldn,t worry over improving your efforts to much your photos look very good.You can spend a lot of time on this subject, the main thing required is a good camera with a close up ability a dark backdrop,good lighting avoid a flash if possible and insure that the plant is clean. I think that very little improvement is needed to your efforts.

jim blanford · #3 (**permalink**) 02-25-2009, 02:09 PM

I agree with everything that masda said your pics look great. Jim.

Bird Song Farm · #4 (**permalink**) 02-25-2009, 02:36 PM

Sure looks to me like you should be giving us advice.

Your photos are top notch.
Masda covered most everything. I would add to be sure that no label or stake is showing and would emphasize the cleanlyness(sp) of the leaves and blossoms. A small artists' brush works very well for dust and small particles.

Al

ronaldhanko · #5 (**permalink**) 02-25-2009, 04:31 PM

Great photos. I prefer photos that are more artistic, as yours are, but if you are doing photography for the AOS judging system they prefer photos that are straight-on shots. Here are some of my photos if you are interested.
Collection: Orchids

Dorothy · #6 (**permalink**) 02-25-2009, 04:45 PM

That Fireball is AWESOME!

May I use it as my desktop screen shot ..
Please

m_ms09 · #7 (**permalink**) 03-01-2009, 01:38 PM

Beautiful photos! I think the second one is the best of that set

Congrats!

BikerDoc5968 · #8 (**permalink**) 03-01-2009, 02:17 PM

Gary, your pics are perfect. I'm interested in your camera and lens. Do you go to Oak Hill with your dark backgound and setup off to the side or are these shots of your plants or what?

silken · #9 (**permalink**) 03-01-2009, 07:58 PM

Hi Gary,
I too would like to know your camera, lens, and set-up. Even some exposure details such as aperture and particularly what kind of lighting. The 2nd photo of the Paph is my fav but they are all great with an artisitic touch to them. They are like I strive for but seldom get. Some tips would be much appreciated.

Silken.

nenella · #10 (**permalink**) 03-05-2009, 07:08 PM

I agree with all of the above! Your photos are superb