Pampered Lady

Image Critiques
1

Pampered-Lady-2026-01-30-13-28-44-(A,R8,S4)A7r3-26.jpg
Pampered-Lady-2026-01-30-13-28-44-(A,R8,S4)A7r3-26.jpg2000×1500 1.64 MB

Pampered-Lady-60991-DxO-A7r3-26.jpg
Pampered-Lady-60991-DxO-A7r3-26.jpg2000×1334 822 KB

Critique Style Requested: Standard

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

Description

This is our potted hibiscus that we are keeping in the garage during our recent cold snap. She rewarded me this morning with a full bloom and then on top of that the light from high overcast brought everything together except for the wind which was troublesome enough that I could not do a full stack. I’m still pretty happy with these and will hope for better conditions tomorrow. >=))>

Specific Feedback

On the first image I concentrated focus on the stigma and the BG bud and let the rest go soft. On the second image I focused on the stigma and let everything else go soft. Any preference, both awful, both wonderful?

Technical Details

Sony A7rIII
Sony FE 70-200 f2.8 GM-II
Image 1: 2 shot stack in Helicon Focus
ISO 400, 1/125 @ f11, 141mm
Image 2: ISO 1600, 1/800 @ f8, 176mm

Critique Template

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Vision and Purpose:
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1 Like
2

Gorgeous!! My vote goes to the first one for the greater DOF, but the dreamy look of the second one is not far behind. I love the hints of detail in the BG.

Must be wonderful to live in the tropics – except in summer!

3

I love the first one, Bill. The sharp detail, the color, the sharp bud and leaf behind the flower. I really don’t see much softness in this image, but feel there’s too much in the second. My only nit in the first one is the vertical shadow line in the 9 o’clock leaf.

4

Interesting, Bill. I actually prefer the second version with just the pistil sharp. In the first version I find the stark difference in focus between the very detailed portions of the petals and the out of focus portions to be a bit jarring. The transition just feels a little to abrupt for my taste.