Wildflower macros

[Bob_B]

This past weekend I had an opportunity to take a brief hike in the nearby state park. Late spring plants were out in all their glory. I had my 70-200 mm with a 20mm extension tube and decided to shoot purposely with a shallow depth of field, more for atmosphere than scientific accuracy. Here are four of the photographs from my hike. I'm not a botanist and don't know the common or scientific names of any of these plants, except the 'red hot poker plant' that I assume was planted by someone, as it isn't native. Please feel free to leave C&C, and thank you for viewing.

  Bob

[NancyP]

Interesting. Endless variety in the common flora.  I have been on a wildflower kick recently, have found a number of Missouri-specific web resources for identification, maybe Maryland has some too. It is amazing how many tiny (1 mm or less) pollinators show up in the photos if you look at 100%.

The most amusing sight in my recent wanderings has been the performance of the jumping Asian (silver) carp at a causeway in flood stage. I didn't bother to photo them, it was too funny watching them try to clear the obstruction a few times and then succeed. The fishermen were frustrated - fish didn't bite.

[polaris-14]

I've always wondered how to properly shoot wildflowers and you just showed me how to do it right. The first picture is amazing. I really like that composition and the green tone is very soft and pleasing.

[NancyP]

All hail to Bokeh!

[Bob_B]

Bokeh rules (most of the time).

Polaris-14, thanks. I appreciate your kind words.

NancyP: I've found several decent webpages with photos of roadside weeds from locales close to but not in Maryland. I am particularly interested to know the name of the weed in the third photo. Re: Asian carp --- I thought all you had to do is sit and bang on something, and the fish literally flew out of the water and into your hands, face, stomach, etc. 

[Bob_B]

One more...

[davidh202]

  I am particularly interested to know the name of the weed in the third photo. 

looks like common Mullin weed to me. We have plenty here in VA
http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=Mullein+Plant&FORM=RESTAB

[thierrylegros396]

I like the lighting of the 2nd.

Have a Nice Day.

Thierry

[Bob_B]

looks like common Mullin weed to me. We have plenty here in VA
http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=Mullein+Plant&FORM=RESTAB

Thanks. That's the one for sure. I've seen this week often but never knew its name.

[NancyP]

Mullein AKA "cowboy toilet paper".  The leaves really are velvety and soft.

[Bob_B]

Mullein AKA "cowboy toilet paper".  The leaves really are velvety and soft.

In this particular case, I'll take your word on it. 

[NancyP]

I haven't tested it personally, mind....