[excogitator]

Originally Posted by jiminyClickit

excogitator, Welcome

I moved your post to "Comparison - Critique" because it allows for two photos to be displayed and compared. All the Critique sections allow only one photo per thread per 24-hour period.

Thanks for moving it to correct thread, I understood the rule now and remember it.

Originally Posted by jiminyClickit

The shallow DOF is almost a hallmark of Macro, to feature one aspect of a subject, to eliminate or reduce a complex distracting background. That high contrast edge is perhaps something you'll accept over time, as a DOF issue. Often you can reduce the effect by darkening the background until the edge becomes unnoticeable. Experience will also help you find the position of focus that gives you more of the subject detail (second example is slightly "off").

Thanks for the comments, I agree, the center part of flower in second photograph is out of focus.