6/22/2011 3:10:56 AM

Thanks Michelle. I know you are aware that I've taken several photographs of this unusual orchid recently but have always been troubled by the background. I first shot with my f/2.8L 300mm Canon lens at wide open to produce a very shallow DOF but wasn't happy with the results. I carry a plastic storage container in the car and in it I pack several pieces of various colors of foamcore board that can be used to produce a non-distracting background. In this case I feel it gave me good results. The 28-135mm Canon lens did a nice job up close. What a versatile lens this is.

Now I must run over to your gallery and see what you have been up to. Your subject matter is always so interesting. See you there. :0)

6/22/2011 6:56:17 AM

Congratulations on this wonderful finalist, Dick. I think I will borrow your idea of the foamcore board. It certainly helped make this a winner in my book!

7/28/2011 6:46:24 PM

I agree with Bonnie, Dick. Your suggestion about the foamcore board should prove helpful to a lot of us. This is a gorgeous, striking Finalist.
Best of luck next level with it!

7/28/2011 7:37:53 PM

Thank you Bonnie and Mary I appreciate your comments. I didn't realized it was a finalist until I received your comments.

7/28/2011 8:03:42 PM

How are ya doing Dick, congrats on this wonderful finalist!

7/28/2011 9:30:29 PM

Congratulation on this awesome finalist
Dick and so very well deserved!

jo ann c.

7/29/2011 6:55:45 AM

Absolutely stunning and gorgeous winner, Dick! Congratulations!

7/29/2011 2:19:45 PM

Thank you all for your support and encouragement.

7/29/2011 3:53:00 PM

CONGRATULATIONS on this Winning image, Dick!

7/29/2011 7:37:38 PM

Thank you Sabrina........ It's been a while since we've shot together hasn't it? Hope all is well with you and yours.

7/29/2011 9:32:03 PM

Glad this got the gold, Dick ~
Congratulations on your Second Place Winner!

7/30/2011 12:10:56 AM

Fannnnn.....tastic Dick!
Congratulations on this awesome Gold Winner!

jo ann c.

7/30/2011 7:16:51 AM

Pretty!! Congrats!

7/30/2011 11:13:19 AM

Congratulations Dick on your Win!!!

Dominick

8/1/2011 12:57:10 AM

C O N G R A T U L A T I O N S.......on this terrific Winner!!!!

UB.

8/1/2011 3:44:34 AM

Most beautiful unusual coloring...very nice! congratulations on your golden win!

8/1/2011 8:05:39 AM

Imagine it. Feel it. Receive it. Congratulations, your entry was very special and thanks for sharing it with all of us. Merna Nobile

8/5/2011 10:51:34 AM