My first attempt at anything

[josaysno]

i really dont know much about photoshop but i learnt how to work with layers and from reading methods on here, had a go myself.

I had the same shot in three exposures (unfortunately due to wind & shake they're not 100% aligned) and played with the layers

before


after


im not sure exactly what i did, as i say, three layers, tried to align them as much as possible, put some filters & zoom blur on two of the layers at varying degrees, played with hue/sat & contrast, got rid of some of the hotspots, cropped (not that happy with the crop)....just basic really

[Father Bob]

Nicely done.
Crop is a bit close.

[jiminyClickit]

josaysno, Welcome

Learning is based on experience and practice, especially editing, where coordination between eye and hand can be critical. For a first time work, you've already tried an unusual zoom blur and layering. You'll get the eye for it as long as you keep looking at others' work and keep your hand busy with your photos.

Best change above is the more intense shadow/orange in the center of your bloom. That adds interest and richness. Watch out for timid crops; if you don't allow a good space around a subject, or just clip a little off the tips of the petals, it says you're not sure. This is another thing to look for in others' work, to see what works. Practice, observation and practice. We'll help where we can.

[private]

The after photo has much more richness to it. And good for you jumping right into layers - I JUST started doing that...lol

[Loose_Canon]

That's a great start, josaysno! Welcome!