Ok... Here is my 1st attempt

[Bssharp]

I just got a Sony A100 DSLR and I am trying to learn how to use it. This is my 1st attempt at close up photos.
I have not edited this at all, except for size, as I was unsure of what to do with it.





( I edited this Photo and re posted).

[Saralonde]

It worked ! You got your first image posted. Lovely first crocus of spring! When shooting a close up or macro shot, set your aperture wide open (small number) and focus directly on the flower to create a shallow depth of field. It seems as if the focus is on the striped leaf in front. The shallow DOF may blur some of the background and foreground so they don't compete with the subject. You can also crop the picture so the flower is less centered.
There definitely is a learning curve to using a dslr, but you're off to a good start!

[Bssharp]

Thanks..... I'll keep that in mind

[Dan Rowe]

Someone correct me if I'm wrong here but something I try that has surprised me with interesting shots is to get lower. In an outdoor shot like this one sometimes if you get the horizon in the frame (even if it is blurred out) it gives the subject more of a natural feel. I like this shot but I wonder what it would have looked like had you been able to get some sky in there too. Just a thought.

[Bssharp]

Ya It probably would have look good, but the flower was only 2 in high, so I could not get low enough.....( Plus my chubby body would not have let it happen LOL). Thanks though.... I'll Try that with something else.

[Christa]

I really think you got the vibrant color across.

For me though when I like looking at flower close ups, I like being able to concentrate on the pure flower. The brown twig that is going parallel to the flower pulls away from it.

I would've plucked the twig however I don't know if this breaks any nature photography rules

[RexK_Cozumel]

I had a professional photographer friend of mine give me some insite into shooting. He says that in photography 90% of it is setup you cant always just wait for the shot to turn out perfect you have to put in a little work. He says the difference between a good shot and a great one is how much prep you put into it. I just wish he lived closer to here.. so much I need to learn.

[jiminyClickit]

Bssharp,

If you were wondering what might be done with/to your photo, and an edit would give you some idea, here's one:



Mainly a rotation, crop, and gradient mask to focus attention on bloom.

[Bssharp]

you are right Christa, By the time I say the twig, I was alrready home. And thanks JiminyClickit.... It looks good.
Thanks everyone. I'll will take what you are telling me, and try to apply it.