MDMC Poppy @ f/4

[Stuart Frohm]

Pentax K100D, SMC Pentax Macro 1:4/100, f/4, exp bias -1.0, aperture priority, 1/125, center-weighted, ISO 200, tripod mounted, iPhoto and Photoshop Elements 2 for Mac.

Thank you very much for this challenge and the opportunity to see so many fine photos. This was an enjoyable stretch.

[Mike Moats]

Hey Stu, very cool image, love the brite red. and you got good details for f/4. Well done.

[Fabs Forns]

Very nice compos and details. I think it could go a bit lighter. Thanks for sharing this one!

[Roman Kurywczak]

Hey Stuart,
I really like the comp and subject.....but agree with Fabs on the darkness.......I feel the only part dark is the stamen and pistels....so thats all I lightened with levels layers and contrast layers. let me know your thoughts. I really like the softness and the darkness of the petals because of the shallow DOF. Nicely done!

[Bruce Murden]

Stu - I realy like the comp, and think f/4 works well here -- the tight DOF is fine with this subject. I agree with Roman's adjustment, lighting up the subject center and leaving good rich reds for the petals. Nice job!

[Julie Kenward]

Love the repost, Roman. I agree that it was just a touch dark and the repost really opens up the luminance of that gorgeous red. Nicely done, Stuart!

[Stuart Frohm]

Thanks very much, Roman, for your very helpful suggestion and for taking the time to provide the improved image. And thanks to all who commented.
All best,
Stu