Took this handheld macro in a strong breeze while on a photowalk Friday night. I was pretty surprised with the amount of detail I was able to capture in the shot given the conditions. One of the more challenging macro shots I've attempted that came out as well. I had to use a fairly low f/stop due to the fading light conditions, combined with my desire to use a low ISO to reduce noise in the shot. This resulted in softened petals, but I really like the effect and the softness it provides to the shot.
My wife noticed this flower as we were walking around the lake behind the Cedar Park Rec Center Sunday evening. As she helped hold some other plants (weeds) out of the way I was able to get into position to grab this shot. Beautiful but prickly. Best to look, not touch.
We planted the original plants that these flowers came from about 5 years ago. I thought I knew what they were, but after looking up that flower I know it is not what I thought it was. So, if any of you are flora experts and can enlighten me, I would greatly appreciate it. All I do know is it is from a plant we originally purchased at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center's Native Plant sale. I love when these delicate beauties come up every Spring and show off their colors. A highlight of our backyard Spring wildflower season. :-) Photo by Steve Coyle Photography (www.stevecoylephotography.com)
