Peak Magnolia

Magnolia season is peaking at the moment and there are many beautiful flowers to enjoy. Each one is a distinct individual, I think that is what makes them so fascinating. On this day, I chose to shoot in black and white because I happen to like the way that the waxy magnolia leaves render in monochrome. In my opinion, the photos look best when the central portion of the flower is in focus. Kind of like getting the eyes sharp in a portrait of a person. And, on top of everything, I'm working with a new camera, which is also a pleasure.

Tasting notes: Pentax K-3 iii Monochrome and 40 mm f/2.8 lens.  

The Delicate Phase

In general, magnolias tend to be messy trees, but when the flowers are new, they have a different, quite delicate character. Once they are fully open, they turn brown and fall apart quickly. They are similar to gardenias in that way.

Mona Lisa Smile

There are more varieties of magnolia growing down here than I ever knew was possible. This fallen leaf looked like a smile to me. Happy Thursday. 

How To Groove

The magnolia, ancient and mysterious, always has something to offer the curious photographer. Often, when I am trying to warm up, to find my groove, I look to the magnolias that are so plentiful around here. There is usually a composition to be found, an interesting stage in the life cycle of the plant to document. These shots in the bag, I find I am usually in the proper mindset to continue photographing. Over time, we all develop our personal warm-up routines.