All the pretty flowers

[rampokker]

Hi all. I would like to hear you opinion/critique on this shot, I am pretty happy with the lighting, but was wondering how I could improve the composition, I know its very central but IMO the rule of thirds doesn't help in the case, I might be wrong. Another thing is the depth of field, the bottom half of the flower is soft, it doesn't bother me but would like to hear your opinion on it. Any other comments is welcome and would be appreciated.



Thanks in advance

[bruceliv]

Remember, the closer you get to your subject, the more shallow the depth of field. I think the DoF is fine in your image taken at f/6.3 at 55mm. Actually, a very nice imaage considering the limitations of your kit lens. If you want more DoF, you could shoot in aperture priority and close the lens down more, This image is a closeup, not a macro. But, it's very colorful and pleasing to the eye.

RE: your lens, I recommend to shoot mostly "A" priority, setting the "sweet spot" of the 18-55mm at f/8 at the short range of the lens, and f/11 at the long part of the range. Note, F/11 will give better DoF.

Your lens focuses to about 11 in. This is pretty close, and it does well. For true macro work, you would need a dedicated macro lens. My wife shoots with a D5000 and uses the 60mm f/2.8G micro. That lens is tack sharp from 1:1 to infinity!

Bending down to shoot a flower from the top is very common, and IMHO, boring. In order to get unique images doing closeup work, try getting "into" your subject more (closer and more on the level of the subject).

I've viewed your flickr site -- some very beautiful work!