Dahlia Dream + Edit

re-worked:

Original:

Critique Style Requested: Standard

The photographer is looking for generalized feedback about the aesthetic and technical qualities of their image.

Description

From my neighbor’s gardens last fall
Bees everywhere!
I found how tough it is to get a good perspective in a crowded garden.
One small OOF bloom removed from lower left

Specific Feedback

comments welcome

Technical Details

Software: DxO Pure Raw + PS 2025
1/160
F Number: f/2.8
ISO Speed Ratings: ISO 200
Exposure Program: Aperture priority
Metering Mode: Multi-segment
Exposure Bias: 0 EV
Flash: No flash
Lens Model: 105.0 mm f/2.8
Selective gaussian blurs


Critique Template

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  • Vision and Purpose:
  • Conceptual:
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  • Composition:
  • Balance and Visual Weight:
  • Depth and Dimension:
  • Color:
  • Lighting:
  • Processing:
  • Technical:

A nice look at this white dahlia. The OOF white flower buds catch my eye and was wondering if they could be softened to make them less prominent. I do like the little syrphid fly taking a break on the main flower…Jim

Beautiful job on the main bloom and it’s echo, Sandy. I see what @Jim means about the buds. To me, this image feels a bit right heavy and I think it might work a little better with a touch of canvas added to the right and maybe a sliver off the left.

Sandy: I like your DOF management and the little party crasher especially. I see @Dennis_Plank’s comment regarding being right heavy and think a simple remedy would be to simply crop some from the left and get close to 4x5. Marvelous color palette and a nicely rendered BG. >=))>

@Dennis_Plank @Jim_Zablotny @Bill_Fach
Thanks, everyone, for the insights. This is exactly what I need, as I explore this new genre for me, and develop techniques and style.
Re-worked (before Bill’s comment) and posted.
I had to use a little Gen Fill, so it’s a bit different.

Repost looks good. Dahlias provide some good opportunities for honing your skills in garden photography. Between my wife’s flower bed and what I planted in the vegetable garden, we have around 100 varieties. So in August, if you are in my area drop by for a garden photo shoot…Jim

@Jim_Zablotny Wish you weren’t so far away! We DO plan to get back to the Great Lakes area maybe next ('26) fall. Thankfully, there are fabulous dahlia gardens here near Salem. We already have the motel booked for this fall. Can’t wait! In the meantime, a few varieties are showing up at local nurseries, and - of course - my stash of dahlias in my files.