I shot the Rose

[ricklumpas]

EXIF Metadata
Manufacturer Canon
Model Canon EOS 450D
Orientation of image Normal
Software used Samsung Master 1.1
File change date/time 2009:06:20 16:27:52
Y and C positioning Co-Sited
Exposure time 1/10
F number 11
Exposure program Aperture priority
ISO speed ratings 200
Exposure bias 0
Metering mode Spot
Flash Flash off
Lens focal length 200
Color space information sRGB
Valid image width 2848
Valid image height 4272
Exposure mode Auto
White balance Manual WB
Scene capture type Standard

I took this shot one cloudy afternoon. I would like to ask if my composition is correct. I also would like to get feedback on color, DoF, lighting, perspective. Should I observe rule of thirds for this shot?

Thanks in advance to all your comments.

[Elmo]

Comp is always a matter of what you want to say. In this case I might have tilted the frame slightly to allow the stem to move diagonally from lower left toward upper right. Then place the bloom at the upper right intersection of the rule of thirds.

DOF is of interest here. Of interest in this area is your choice of f11. Stopped down that far can cause some loss of sharpness due to diffraction. This also gives a huge DOF. Might I suggest shooting this again, this time try using all f-stops from wide open to closed completely down (adjust shutter speed to maintain proper exposure) and look at the difference in DOF and sharpness.

DOF is not as important here as background selection. You have individual dark leaves against bright skylight, not change of DOF will eliminate the splotched background which to me is distracting. Try a different point of view to give a more consistent background brightness level. Then DOF will become a usable tool.

Lighting -> cloudy days are great close up days, nice smooth even light. One thing you might want to try is use a small piece of white cardboard to reflect a small amount of light up under the flower to soften the shadow.

I may have seemed a little harsh but it was intended as hints to improve, you show some good potential.

Elmo

[ricklumpas]

Originally Posted by Elmo

Comp is always a matter of what you want to say. In this case I might have tilted the frame slightly to allow the stem to move diagonally from lower left toward upper right. Then place the bloom at the upper right intersection of the rule of thirds.

DOF is of interest here. Of interest in this area is your choice of f11. Stopped down that far can cause some loss of sharpness due to diffraction. This also gives a huge DOF. Might I suggest shooting this again, this time try using all f-stops from wide open to closed completely down (adjust shutter speed to maintain proper exposure) and look at the difference in DOF and sharpness.

DOF is not as important here as background selection. You have individual dark leaves against bright skylight, not change of DOF will eliminate the splotched background which to me is distracting. Try a different point of view to give a more consistent background brightness level. Then DOF will become a usable tool.

Lighting -> cloudy days are great close up days, nice smooth even light. One thing you might want to try is use a small piece of white cardboard to reflect a small amount of light up under the flower to soften the shadow.

I may have seemed a little harsh but it was intended as hints to improve, you show some good potential.

Elmo

A little harsh, oh no. I appreciate everything you wrote here, Elmo. When a rose blooms, I will take shots using a white cardboard to lessen the shadow and try other f stops. Thank you very much!