27 January 2012
Lens:
Orchids, Permanent Collection 1, Longwood Gardens, January 2012; © Sally W. Donatello and Lens and Pens by Sally, 2012
Orchid, Permanent Collection 2, Longwood Gardens, January 2012; © Sally W. Donatello and Lens and Pens by Sally, 2012
Orchids, Permanent Collection 3, Longwood Gardens, January 2012; © Sally W. Donatello and Lens and Pens by Sally, 2012
Orchid, Permanent Collection 4, Longwood Gardens, January 2012; © Sally W. Donatello and Lens and Pens by Sally, 2012
Orchid, Permanent Collection 5, Longwood Gardens, January 2012; © Sally W. Donatello and Lens and Pens by Sally, 2012
Orchids, Permanent Collection 6, Longwood Gardens, January 2012; © Sally W. Donatello and Lens and Pens by Sally, 2012
Note: I’d like to know which is your favorite.
Pens:
Yesterday I posted the first part of this week’s photo shoot at Longwood Gardens, where their current exhibition, Orchid Extravaganza, overflowed with Phalaenopsis orchids. These plants are one of the most intriguing and sumptuous of Mother Nature’s bounty. Their appearance is addictive, and manifests itself with cravings for more.
Even my affinity for native species doesn’t keep me from admiring and enjoying other flowering plants. Orchids are especially enticing, and I appreciate their individuality and evolutionary survival. The chance to see huge displays was overpowering, and certainly gives them the spotlight that they deserve.
If you’re going to be in the area, do plan a trip to the Gardens before the Orchid Extravaganza is gone (March 25). As I said yesterday, if you really fancy these beauties, the best days are March 23-25 when the Southeastern Pennsylvania Society of Orchids will bring an International Orchid Show & Sale.
Note: Please see yesterday’s post for additional photographs from my photo shoot at the Orchid Extravaganza. Images in this post’s Lens section are from the room that houses some of Longwood Gardens’ permanent collection of orchids.
Lens and Pens by Sally 
Love the red!
Thanks for my likes and look forward to seeing and praising more of your work.
Thank you for your comment and visit. See you soon.
stunning! one of my favourite plants. Thanks for sharing =)
Thanks, Ana Lucia, I really enjoy viewing your blog. Will be returning to the Extravaganza later this month. They’ll be adding an International Show–what fun. Thanks again for the comment and for visiting, Sally
Love Orchids! I have to say they are my top favorite flower! Their sensual shape and colors are just breathtaking.. Love it!!!
I agree, and in two weeks there will be an added feature at the Extravaganza: am International Orchid Show. I’ll be there. Thanks for your comment, Sally
Reblogged this on L'heureuse imparfaite and commented:
Pour le plaisir de partager des photos de si belles orchidées.
Merci, for reblogging my post, Sally
wow!! 🙂
Thanks, that’s very kind, Sally
Great shots – and a great use of lighting.
Keep up the good work!
Many thanks Carrie, Sally
Shots 1 & 6 are my favorites. Although, to me, all of God’s creations are beautiful, there’s something about the red and the purple; these two flowers look more graceful than the others.
You have a wonderful eye for photography! Thank you for sharing your talent with all of us.
Blessings,
Dulcinea 🙂
I appreciate your comments, and glad that you enjoyed my photographs, Sally
My favorites are numbers 4 and 5. I like the green to the right of the red in the orchid in #4 and I like way the white one fills the entire shot on #5. I love photographing orchids they are so beautiful and there are so many varieties.
They offer a limitless opportunity to capture their beauty, and I’m fortunate that Longwood Gardens has a show where so many are present. Thanks, Sally
Wondering if any of these flowers has a specific smell? They are simple and elegant. Thank you for sharing as I love to garden.
Each orchid has its own fragrance. Thanks for visiting my post, Sally
I am a lebanese girl and we don t have this variety in Lebanon,so I enjoy watching ORCHIDS!!
Nice that I could bring them to you, Sally
beautiful…. i like all of them, each has its own place…. no more no less exactly where they should be… and captured very wisely…
I’m appreciative of your thoughtful comment, Sally
Beautiful! I visit the yearly Orchid Show at the New York Botanical Gardens. Congrats to you that you can keep only 18 of the pictures that you took … I have to learn to have a more critical eye when choosing which photos to keep or show …
Thanks for commenting and visiting–and glad that you got to the orchid show at the NYBG, Sally
I love the last picture. The contrast between the lavender and the green color produces a crisp and clean look.
Thanks, it’s one of my favorites. Glad that you enjoyed it, Sally
This reminds me of my mothers garden of orchids. Those Borneo orchids takes a lot of love and care to bloom. Usually 2-3 years or so.
What a fabulous treat to be able to walk outside and have orchids surrounding you. Your mother’s garden must bring fond memories. Thanks for visiting, Sally
Am here for the first time and i love the concept: “lens and pens” :)))
love the 3rd and 5th!!! 🙂
the look so pretty and beautiful!!! 🙂
Thanks, it took some time to get just the right title, but I am quite happy to be able to share two of my passions. Glad that you visited the post, Sally
My favorite is the second one. I haven’t seen one like it yet. It looks like a star :-).
Glad that I could bring something new to you, Sally
I think I like both #3 and #4 for their dark exotic beauty. I love Orchids and have photographed them a few times. I’ve tried to grow them too but I’m not very successful. I have two at the moment – still alive but not flowering. Still, it’s progress. Congrats on the Freshly Pressed. Personally I’m delighted because it led me to your blog. And congrats on the Versatile Blogger award (I just got one too!).
Thanks for your kind words, and congrats on the VB award. I do appreciate your comments and visit, Sally
Orchid, Permanent Collection 2, Longwood Gardens is my favorite. When I was a little girl my next door neighbor and surrogate grandfather raised orchids in his greenhouse. Thank you for that memory!
Your very welcome, glad that the images could bring back good ones, Sally
These are absolutely beautiful. My grandpa died of Alzheimer’s in 2009. He was an avid lover of nature, but most of all orchids. He would spend hours tending to them and always had the most beautiful combinations. When his memory went so did the beautiful flowers. It’s nice to see them again! Breathtaking photos. I know he would say the same. You’re a great photographer and I look forward to seeing what else you put up.
Peace,
Molly
and…my favorite is number one. I love the bright red and magenta color. Number five is a close second with it’s understated beauty and simple shape. You did a great job of capturing the different types. There are so many more out there! Did you grow these yourself?
-M
Thanks, these are from the orchid exhibition at Longwood Gardens. It would be nice to be able to see them daily, Sally
That’s a very touching story, and I’m pleased that my photographs brought fond memories of your grandfather. Thanks for visiting. and mostly your thoughtful comments, Sally
I like #2 for its spidery profile, and #6 because it feels like a demure and vulnerable portrait of a sentient creature.
Thanks for your thoughtful comment and for visiting the post, Sally
These are fantastic pictures, I wish to have a garden like these, my pick is the last one as I love the lavender color. totally magnifying.:-)
I agree. It would be lovely to gaze out the window and see orchids growing in their natural habitats. Thanks for your comments and visiting, Sally
beautiful – thanks for sharing!!
Your welcome, and thanks for visiting my post, Sally
I would have to vote for #4. Whenever I see orchids it’s not hard for me to see how Walt Disney was able to portray them as more than simply flowers. They have their own ‘faces’ don’t they?
Enjoyed the reference, and thanks for visiting and commenting, Sally
Love the photos! I think it’s a special skill to be able to capture the true beauty of this plant in a single frame as you have done here! Nice work.
You’re kind words are appreciated. I’m glad that you enjoyed the orchids, Sally
Hi There! I just discovered you from Freshly Pressed! I love Orchids and gardening too. I used to live near Longwood and it was such an inspiring place. Your photos are amazing and I love #2 for the intricate detail of the bloom and color combination. I also love #4, the Lady Slipper. I have not had one of these for sometime now and I love the colors in this one. I look forward to reading more…
I’m a devotee to my gardens and am still harvesting herbs. With early signs of spring in a non-winter, I spent hours today doing this and that in a few of my habitats. Thanks for visiting and for your lovely comments, Sally
Wonderful pics!!!!!
Thanks, and I’m glad that you enjoyed them, Sally
Gorgeous shots! I like 2 for it’s soft white color and clarity. I love 3 because that’s one of my fav orchids and my favorite combination of colors. But, 4 is undoubtedly my absolute preferred because paphiopedilums are among my favorite orchids….as are most “lady slippers”.
Great work and congrats.
Your comments are really appreciated. Thanks and glad that you enjoyed the orchids, Sally
hi sally 😀 I like so much this collection & i like the color of the last one!!thank u:) (i follow recently this website and of course I m so happy)
Thanks for the comment, Sally
That’s what I call something great !! Cheers
Thank you so much, your comment is humbling, Sally
🙂 Actually, there’s one thing I’d like to know. Can you please tell me about the camera that you use for this? Actually, my friend is learning professional photography and I just thought that I could suggest this one 🙂 Cheers
And please check out my site if you feel like 🙂 – http://raajtram.wordpress.com
I use a Nikon DSLR. There are many choices. I would suggest that your friend go to a camera store, and get some advice and ask lots of questions. Most important, if the friend already has a number of lenses then it’s important to know if they will fit the new camera. Good luck, and thanks for visiting, Sally
This is very fine photography. I liked the second one.
I am really pleased to say this, I found you have responded to each and every comment. Good dignity from you!
http://raghavendra-mobilephotography.blogspot.com/2011/10/different-views-of-flower.html
just visit once 🙂
That’s very kind–I feel that if people take the time to comment, then I must respond. You take your images with your cellphone. I’ve done a little too. Thanks for visiting, Sally
The set up of your blogs is brillant! I’d be honored if you checked out mine: http://realeasemysoul.wordpress.com/
Thanks for the comment, I will look at your site. I appreciate your visit, Sally
I like the second and third ones from the top best, but love the colour of the last one. 🙂
Thanks Val, glad that you viewed the orchids, Sally
My Favorite is definitely the second shot – but I great composition in #3, as well! Well done!
Thanks, orchids are always a challenge to get the right angle to give them their due/ Thanks for visiting, Sally
Those pictures is very impressive summit in creativity.
Thank u for enlighten our day.
Thank you, you are very kind, Sally
I have always loved orchids….they are my favorite flower. And I think you have caught the essence and personality of the orchid quite beautifully….thank you for sharing these.
Celeste
I’m so glad that you enjoyed them, and I appreciate your comments, Sally
lovely…4 and 5 are my favorites…
Many thanks for visiting, Sally
Lovely…4 and 5 are my favorites.
Thanks for selecting 4 and 5. I appreciate your visit, Sally
Beautiful! Orchids are my favourite flowers. Of the ones you’ve photographed I prefer the white ones. 🙂
The simplicity of the white really brings their majesty to the forefront. Thanks for viewing my blog, Sally
ooh these shots are all soo beautiful!
I appreciate your comment, Glad that you were able to see them, Sally
my mom loves her orchids, showed her these photos and she was sooo delighted ❤
That’s lovely–so glad that you shared them with her. Thanks for visiting, Sally
BEAUTIFUL!
thanks
Thank you–I appreciate that you visited this post, Sally
Such beautiful photos! Makes me want to go and work on my garden!
I live on the East Coast of the USA, and we’ve had a warm winter. I’m still harvesting arugula and parsley. That’s never happened. After I answer comments, I’m going to go work in my garden and it’s February. Thanks for visiting, Sally
Beautiful flowers, beautiful pictures.. suddenly remember orchids in my mom’s back yard.. ^^ You should take a picture of black orchids..
I wish that I could see a black orchid. They sound amazing. Thanks for visiting, Sally
2 and 4 are beautiful, especially 2 it appears as a whimsical starfish.
Thanks for your observation, and I appreciate your visit, Sally
I love flowers and orchids…Those photos are enticingly beautiful!
That’s very kind. Thanks, Sally
I love orchids! I just posted some pictures of a white one that I took today. Love how they photograph 🙂
/Linda
http://www.lindalind.com/blog
Orchids are easily one of nature’s finest. Thanks for viewing and visiting my photographs, Sally
These are really beautiful. 2&5 are my favorites!
Thanks for your visit and comment, Sally
I have a friend in Baltimore who is always going to Longwood Gardens. Personally I haven’t been there in many, many years. I fear my traveling days are over.
While Longwood Gardens is unique, you probably have a number of gardens to visit in your area. Thanks, Sally
Simply beautiful. I think the white one filling the whole picture is my favorite. Gorgeous!
Thanks, and glad that you were able to visit the post, Sally
Sally, your Orchid, Permanent Collection 2 has to be the wildest, most beautiful flower I have ever seen!!! I too, am a photographer of flowers and know how extremely difficult it is to take a great photo of one. This particular photo is stunning!!!
That’s very kind, every photo shoot has its own challenges. Thanks for viewing my post–mostly, I’m humbled by your comments, Sally
Beautiful and make me that i wanna try to shoot flowers more ! Thanks for sharing ! COOL PICS
Great, it’s such a pleasure to photograph flowers, because I always see them in a new way. Thanks for visiting, Sally
Fantastic flowers!
Thanks for your kind words, and glad that you enjoyed the flowers, Sally
#3 makes me want to dance. I love it. great pixs.
That’s a lovely comment. Thanks, Sally
Positively stunning photos! And you’re quite right, orchids exotic beauty are addicting (and the second photo is my favorite). Fabulous post. 🙂
Many thanks for your kind words and for visiting the post, Sally
Reblogged this on Make Something Every Day and commented:
Citrus drink on a grey day. Great blog post!
Thanks so much for reblogging my post. I really appreciate it, Sally
I love #2
Thanks for visiting and glad that you enjoyed #2, Sally
Absolutely wonderful flowers and beautiful photos. Thank you for sharing. I’ve always loved orchids too, the colors are always a pleasure to look at.
Thanks for viewing my post and your kind comments–you’re correct that the vibrancy of the hues keeps us returning to their beauty, Sally
Remarkable photos! . . . Works of art!!
http://arabianmusings.wordpress.com/
I’m humbled by your kind words. Thanks, and glad you enjoyed my photographs, Sally
#2 is my pick but they are all wonderful! I have 2 orchids in spike right now. Growing these can be addicting. Started with one now I have 10. Thanks for sharing!
You’ve given yourself a marvelous gift, being able to “live” with these marvels. Thanks for your comments, Sally
It’s so nice, I love it..
Thanks for viewing and visiting, Sally
Those are lovely shots of orchids! What kind of equipment and camera do you use? You’ve got a great talent for taking photos!
Your comments are very much appreciated. I use a Nikon DSLR camera. My favorite lens is the macro, which absolutely requires that you use a tripod. Macro lens are amazing pieces of technology. Often you are able to see things that your eye did not. Thanks for visiting, Sally
Inspiring , vivid, bright and simply…beautiful!
Thanks, you are right about orchids. In their simplicity they dazzle. Thanks for visiting, sally
Hi Sally,
2, 4 and 6 are my favourites. They are all wonderful, though!
Lorna
So glad that you enjoyed the images. I appreciate your comments, Sally
2 and 4. i love orchids and love taking pictures of flowers. mine are nowhere near as good as yours!
beautiful!
Thanks for your kind words, and for visiting, Sally
much like orchid !!
Thanks, and I appreciate that you visited my site, Sally
Beautiful pics. You might like these from Malaysia.
These were taken in the Kuala Lumpur Orchid Garden
Dave
I really like what you are doing on your blog. Great idea to record your experiences. You seeing a new culture and its beauty, including the orchids, which are lovely. I also like your images of the food. I’m taking a food writing course at my alma mater. It’s so much fun. Thanks for visiting, Sally
So vibrant! Such detail! What talent!
You’re kind words are appreciated and thanks for viewing my blog, Sally
Wow! These are the breathtaking moments we live for 🙂 Thank you!
I’m humbled. Thanks, Sally
The third and the sixth are my favorite. The third for the interesting shape and texture, and the sixth for the color. So beautiful!
Thanks for sharing your lovely photography, and congrats on being Freshly Pressed! You deserve it!
You are so kind, and comments are really, really appreciated. Thanks for viewing my blog, Sally
The 2nd last one is somysterious and beautiful, and eerie 🙂
Thanks, and I’m glad that you enjoyed it, Sally
Beautiful. I have a very similar one with the no.3 in my mum’s garden. Posted in my blog, batikmania (let me share the link here: http://batikmania.wordpress.com/2009/02/07/another-beauty/ ). I also keep the Brassidium orchid, the white one (similar with the one in your photo #2, and also have the pinkish one). The other similar one that I also have in the garden, is the Paphiopedilum madela, the purple one, #4 on your photo list. At the recent time, those flowers are not blooming, so I am really happy to see these beautiful orchids in your blog. Lovely 🙂 Your pictures are awesome. I love them. It’s difficult to pick my favorite. Umm… maybe #6, the light purple one.
How lucky you are to have orchids growing outside where you can enjoy their beauty. Thanks for visiting and viewing the post, Sally
My favorite would be No 3. It resembles an orchid called “Dancing Lady” that we had many years ago when my daughter (now 32) was born.
Orchids are fascinating flowers. Glad that you enjoyed #3, and thanks for visiting my blog, Sally
#3 is stunning, as all of them are. I’m attracted to the fire in the flower. The delicacy the shot captures. Fantastic.
Your appreciation for what you capture is why I’d love to see your work on my blog. Would you like to be a guest this coming week? Wednesday?
Thanks so much for asking me to be a guest contributor. Right now I’m trying to keep up with comments from my blog being Freshly Pressed, and also creating new posts. Maybe another time, but I’m really appreciative of the invite. Thanks for visiting my post, Sally
Collection 5 would have to be my favorite. Looks like a small bird [perhaps a dove?] hovering in front of a parent avian. Spectacular pictures. Life is so beautiful. Thank you for sharing!
Your very welcome, and I appreciate your kind words, Sally
Beautiful! I love flowers but over all Orchids stand my favorite, they represent such a sensual detail among orchids. I have some I need to post, great job!!!!
Thanks, they are a joy to photograph. Also thanks for visiting the post and for your kind comments, Sally
Reblogged this on http://www.blogjelex.tk.
Thanks for reblogging my post and visting, Sally
extremely surreal, all of them, but sumptuous. My pick is the white one, number 5. Beautiful photos. I live in Baltimore and I’ve always wanted to go to Longwood Gardens, I just haven’t done it yet. I live near the National Arboretum and that keeps me happy. Thanks.
The trip north would be worth it. Do plan to come after spring has arrived. The grounds at Longwood Gardens are definitely a treat to remember. Thanks for your comments, Sally
Beautiful pictures!
Thanks for the visit to my post, Sally
Your photographs are breathtaking. Orchids are my passion and I love viewing them. What an excellent exhibition to have the chance to attend – I wish I was in the neighborhood! I found the first photograph to be especially captivating. What a unique color.
I do appreciate your kind words. Thanks for viewing the post, Sally
Really pretty flowers and pictures
🙂
Thanks Katie for visiting, Sally
I used to live in Orchid jungles in Colombia and Ecuador and the rain forest of Venezuela. Orchids ran rampant. I particularly loved your photo copyright Orchid, Permanent Collection 5, Longwood Gardens, January 2012; © Sally W. Donatello and Lens and Pens by Sally, 2012.
Reminded me of a butterfly within. Thanks for sharing. Mary Ellen
What wonderful memories to have grown up with orchids nearby. Thanks for your comments, Sally
Thank you.
Thanks you for visiting, glad that you viewed the orchids, Sally
The orchids were so beautiful. I used to see lots of them in the rain forest of Venezuela and Colombia.
Lucky you–one of my dreams is to visit a rainforest. Thanks so much for your comments and for visiting, Sally
You are welcome. Do follow your dreams. I know they can come true. You would love the rainforest.
That’s lovely and thanks, Sally
Such beautiful flower pictures – especially number 2,4 and 5. Thank you!!
My pleasure-glad that you liked the orchids. Thanks for viewing my post, Sally
Beautiful!!!! My birthname means Orchid so they fasinate me, thank you!
Lucky you, they are the most gorgeous and mysterious flower. Mother Nature certainly knows what’s she doing. Thanks for visiting, Sally
I would have to say I liked 3 and 4 the most; the out of focus background adds a nice touch to the clarity of the more focused foreground flowers – beautiful!
Thanks for viewing my post, and I appreciate your comments, Sally
Really good pics. One and four are my favorites. Thanks for sharing.
My pleasure, glad that you enjoyed the orchids, Sally
I love #5, hands down your best work, thanks for sharing MJ
Your welcome, and thanks for visiting, Sally
Gorgeous. I love orchids. They look like they they can speak.
That’s very kind. I’m appreciative of your comments and visit, Sally
Simply exquisite! Number 2 and 5 are my favorites.
Glad that you enjoyed the orchids. I appreciate your comment and visit, Sally
They’re all SO beautiful! It’s almost impossible to choose.. I like the second and the last most if I absolutely had to.
Orchids do make it hard to like one over the other. Nature is clever to lure with such vibrant colors. Thanks for visiting my post, Sally
i love it thats my favorite flower
Thanks, glad that you visited the post, Sally
I like the detail in #5 (the white one). Its hard to have a favorite when there are such excellent colors!
Thanks, orchids really do woo us with their vibrant hues, Sally
Simply beautiful!
Thanks John, really appreciate your comment, Sally
The colours are amazing, It’s incredible how well you captured it all so vividly! feels like I was actually there visiting with you. Very nice indeed 🙂
I’m humbled, and with sincerity thank you for the comments. Glad that you enjoyed the orchids, Sally
Last year my thoughtful wife had one of these beautiful flowers delivered to one of high school friends for her birthday. It was expensive……well over $150. We understand it lived a long time. Marie was my wife’s girlfriends’ name. The last time we visited, in fact this weekend for dinner, when Marie mentioned the flower, tears swelled up in her eyes. She remarked that in her entire lifetime, before or since, had she ever received a more beautiful flower.
Thanks a lovely tribute to your wife, her friend and a majestic flower. Thanks for visiting, Sally
I love #4, brilliant colors and very artistic!
Thanks, your comments mean a lot, and I appreciate that you visited my blog, Sally
No. 1 is my favorite — so bright and colorful! As an aside, how did you get the black background in photos 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6? Was there a black wall behind the orchid?
My most favorite lens is the macro, which allows for much creativity. Some of the effects come from the positioning of the subject, and others from the “photoshopping;” which I do very little of it. I’m not a purist, but I rarely do extensive editing on my photographs. Glad that you enjoyed them and thanks for viewing my post, Sally
#5 is my favorite. I’ve seen them growing in the crooks of trees in Hawaii and cascading down. Beautiful photos!
I’d love to travel to Hawaii–the flowers must have been spectacular. And the orchids in their natural habitats–what a treat. Thanks for your comments and visiting, Sally
Pingback: Longwood Gardens Photo Shoot: Orchid Extravaganza, Part Two | Infos Press
Thanks for posting my photo shoot at Longwood Gardens; it’s very much appreciated, Sally
Interested details of Orchid plantation
Thanks for visiting and your comment, Sally
lovely.. #3 is my favorite…
Glad that you enjoyed the orchids, and many thanks for visiting, Sally
These photos are absolutely gorgeous! My favourite has to be the last photo, the purple one, but all of them are so beautiful!
That’s very kind, I really appreciate your thoughts, Sally
hey i liked both white orchids..i never knew these kind of orchids exist..great to see these pictures..
Thanks for visiting, and have a good day, Sally
They’re all beautiful but the purple one is my favorite!
Orchids are such a visual treat, and thanks for visiting, Sally
I really love the third photo !!! Excellent work! Keep it up! 😀 😀
Thanks so much for your comments. Have a good day, Sally
Beautiful pictures! My favorite is the first one. I love that red on that green background 🙂 …so fresh and full of energy! For me it’s always a pleasure to take pictures of flowers. Always bring you so much joy 🙂
You’re so right, because you are able to see the flower in a different way through the camera’s eye. Thanks, Sally
i love your photos.. my fave is picture #2 because i find it unique resembling animal print. by the way, here’s a photo of my cattleya orchids in my garden.
congrats on being FP.
You are so fortunate to be able to grow them. It’s a lovely orchid. Thanks for the comments and for viewing my post, Sally
Lovely use of colour, light and shade. Should you ever visit Glasgow you might like to check out the Orchid collection at Glasgow Botanic Gardens.
I’d really like to visit that Gardens’ collection and your country. Whenever I travel, public gardens are a priority. This process of sharing our work with others is so rewarding. I get to meet people, like you, from across the world. How grand is that? I will view the Gardens on the Web. Thanks so much for your kind words, Sally
Very nice … i like collection 3 most …
Thanks for visiting my site, Sally
Reblogged this on It's me facing me….
Thanks for reblogging my post, Sally
You are welcome. Upon seeing your post, the first thing that came to my mind is, “Oh my, I gotta reblog this!” because I love orchids. We all call them orchids, but each has its own uniqueness, just like humans. That’s why I love orchids… 🙂
You’re absolutely correct. They are mysterious and cunning and gorgeous and even clever–like the human animal. Thanks again, Sally
Photos are really awesome….
Many thanks for visiting and your lovely comment, Sally
Reblogged this on The environmentor's Blog.
Thanks for reblogging this post. I appreciate your visit, Sally
superb magnificent pics. I like red orchid madly. Nice shot taken.
Appreciate your comments, and visit to my post, Sally
Absolutely gorgeous macro shots! Great work!
I’m obsessed with my macro. It’s the most outrageously fun lens to use. Thanks for the comments–I truly appreciate it, Sally
Which macro lens do you use? I have a Canon 100mm f2.8L w/IS that I am in love with as well!
I have a Nikkor 85mm, and there are times when I pinch myself for not purchasing the 105mm. Price dictated my choice. But I love it just the same, Sally
It produces fantastic images, good to know! Thanks, Shannon
Your welcome, Sally
beautiful orchid….
Thanks so much, and have a good day, Sally
Orchids are my favorite. I’ve never had the chance to see so many at once, so even though I’m not there in person, thank you for sharing these!
You’re very welcome. Orchids are unforgettable in their beauty and construction. Thanks for visiting, Sally
Love love love love love
Also YAY fresh pressed!!!!!!
Thanks, your comments are appreciated. Yes, this FP experience is beyond reasonable excitement. Thanks, Sally
Hello Sally … the purple ones were my absolute favourite. You know I was just about to start my new blog which I am planning to call “My garden of flowers from around the world’.
Thanks for stopping by my blog, and good luck on your launch, Sally
Stunning photos! I also took some photos of the flowers at the National Orchid Garden, Singapore… 🙂
http://joxtapose.wordpress.com/2012/02/14/ode-to-orchids-national-orchid-garden-singapore/
Orchids are such gorgeous photographic subjects. Thanks for visiting, Sally
Congratulations on being Freshly Pressed 🙂
It’s such a bizarre and wondrous experience,and mostly it is a joy to meet new people. I’m enjoying visiting your blog, and will see you soon. Thanks so much, Sally
#5! 🙂
Thanks for visiting my post, Sally
Sally? Does it say Sally somewhere on my profile? Lol. My name’s Janice haha. And you’re welcome! 🙂
No, I always end my comments with my name. Again thanks for visiting, Sally (see I sign it with my name)
LOL! Oh sorry haha. I thought I was going crazy =P
Not at all, thanks again for stopping by my blog, Sally
Your photos are beautiful
Thanks so much and glad that you enjoyed them, Sally
You capture the beauty and the essence of the orchid beautifully. I grow a few different types, yet remain baffled by how they grow in my hostile indoor climate.
Thank you for sharing your work.
You’re very welcome, it a pleasure to meet others who appreciate the orchids majesty. Thanks for visiting, Sally
I love the final shot of the purple orchid. The color is beautiful, and at first glance, I thought i was looking at an orchid and its reflection! That second bloom almost tricks the eye. Love it!
I do so appreciate your comments. Glad that you enjoyed the orchids, Sally
I like the white orchid most.
Thanks for visiting, Sally
Love your photos and Longwood Gardens. I haven’t been in 30 years; obviously I need to go back. I like the first and second ones. The first because of the vibrant colors and the second because it’s one I’ve never seen. I adore orchids, but I’ve killed every one I’ve tried to grow. I’ll settle for beautiful pictures. Congratulations on being Freshly Pressed!
That’s why such treasures as Longwood Gardens offer so much. We can meander indoors and out with nothing to do but enjoy. Thanks for your kind words, Sally
Orchids are such beautiful and mysterious plants. I like the white one. Congrats on being Freshly Pressed!
Thanks so much, it’s a glorious experience and I appreciate your comments, Sally
Your photos are stunning! I am a beginner photographer. Can you comment on your camera setting and lighting condition? That would help me a lot. Thanks.
Of course, to me lighting is very much the essence of the stilled image. It takes a lot of experimentation. My biggest hint in terms of the orchids is the macro lens, which has become obsessively useful. I’ve had my Nikon digital camera for years. While equipment can certainly be your assistant, the best advice is to see a lot of art and photographs. Notice everything around you. Read John Berger’s Way of Seeing and others such as Geoff Dyer’s essays and reviews. It’s a never-ending process of practicing. I can take 100 photographs, and maybe keep two. Hope that this helps. Thanks for visiting, Sally
I loved the red orchid the best. Wonderful pictures! 😀
I appreciate your comments. Thanks, Sally
Fabulous plants, even more fabulous photos. I grow Phalaenopsis plants and love them. My friend specializes in slipper orchids, he loves all orchids, as do I.
Thanks for your comments and visiting my post. As you know, orchids are inspiring and bring great beauty into our lives. Thanks again, Sally
WOW Incredible…!
toss up between the reds of #1 and the # 6 …
Thank you for sharing such breathtaking beauty..
I grow orchids, though more simple ones
)0(
BlessedBe
ladybluerose
I am in awe of those who grow orchids. It must be such pleasure to watch as they produce their magnificence. Thanks for your comments, Sally
What beautiful contrast and depth. My initial response was to say I like the second image best, but that last one and it’s gorgeous purple hue stole the show. 🙂
Thanks for visiting–and I appreciate your comments, Sally
I’m partial to #3 myself. #6 is stunning for color. And congrats on being FP’d! I was just checking your site the other day. And then, WOW. There you were. Front page. I hope you don’t have anything else to do this weekend as you catch up on all the great comments you’re likely to get. Great work. 🙂
I have to say that it’s a staggeringly terrific experience. It’s shocking the power of the Freshly Pressed page. Thanks for your comments and much appreciation for visiting my blog, Sally
Absolutely stunning! My favourite would be the last one, but then I am partial to purple. So beautiful. Well photographed too. Congrats on the FP!
Glad that you stopped to view my post. Thanks so much for your thoughtful comments. It’s a whirlwind day, Sally
Love the lady slippers!!!! All images are beautiful though.
Thanks for viewing my post and for your comments, Sally
Definitely #2 is my favorite! They are very beautiful! Thank you for sharing!
Your welcome and thanks for visiting. I appreciate your comments, Sally
Hey, by the way… I am Sally too, but I go by Sallyjane…
Blessings Sj
When I was young, I only knew one other person named Sally. But in my adult years, I’ve met quite a few. Thanks for visiting, Sally
I love No. 4–that color gets me every time with flowers. These get my blood pumping hard for spring.
Thanks so much for visiting and your kind words, Sally
Hello and thank you for capturing the magic of Longwood. All of the photos are stunning, but image 3 is simply stunning.
I am blessed to have such a stellar horticultural center within less than an hour’s drive. Hope that you get to visit it some day, Sally
I couldn’t make a decision. All of the orchids are absolutely gorgeous. I have to say the photography is outstanding as well. Thanks so much for posting these.
I am touched by your words. Thanks for visiting, Sally
The second picture? Wow…just, wow.
Many thanks, Sally
Image number 3 is the best in my opinion but they are all nice. I like the framing in number 3, well done overall, very nice. Orchids make for beautiful photography.
No matter how often I stroll through Longwood Gardens, there are always many surprises. Orchids are the quintessential flower for enjoyment. Thanks, Sally
Beautiful work! Many of the brooches I created were inspired by orchids. Several were inspired by photographs I took at the Cleveland Orchid Show and the orchid farms in Santa Barbara, CA.
Keep up the beautiful work!
Thanks so much, Sally
Aren’t orchids wonderful! I’m going back to take more shots at our local conservatory annual orchid show. The color of the last one is lovely.
Enjoy your return trip, and it’s always a surprise the second time around to discover something new to savor. Thanks for visiting, Sally
Number 3 gets my vote. I really enjoy photographing orchids even though I’ve not had too many opportunities to do so. Might want to check out my website, http://www.corinthrose.com for floral images when time permits. Not sure there are too many orchids in the galleries, though. Congratulations for being Freshly Pressed.
I am stunned to be Freshly Pressed. It’s a staggering experience. Thanks for visiting and I will view your blog. Thanks again, Sally
These are really beautiful photographs of some really beautiful displays of God’s handy work. Thanks for sharing. Connie
http://7thandvine.wordpress.com/
Thanks Connie, glad that you enjoyed the photographs, Sally
These are beautiful photos! I am a WordPress photographer as well!
Great job!
Thanks Aaron for viewing the post. I appreciate your kind words, Sally
Longwood Gardens is one of my all time favorite places to visit ever — these pictures really make me want to go there before their orchid showcase is over, thanks so much for sharing them!
Please do not miss it. It’s a memorable experience. Thanks for your comments, Sally
Super photos – bit worried about the spotty spider one; not my cup of whatever, but love the deep maroon and also the white. Thanks for sharing these
That’s what so great about nature, there is always something for each of us to enjoy. Thanks for visiting, Sally
they are all beautiful, but to pick just one, it would have to be the first one. vibrent red and contrasting green, and beautiful placement 🙂
Thanks so much, your comments are appreciated, Sally
Gorgeous orchids! I spent a couple of years in Venezuela and was always amazed by these incredible flowers. Some of them you could literally patch on your wall with tape and they’d grow on the spot!
That’s a great story. Thanks for visiting, Sally
thanks,it was like a dream!!!!!
How kind–you words really mean a lot, Sally
2 and 4 are my favorites. I love the speckled blooms of #2 and the beautiful colors and composition in #4. Lovely!
Glad that you enjoyed them. Thanks for visiting, Sally
all beautiful, but my favourite is the mysterious number 4 – I would like to own such an orchid later!
I wish that I had the correct interior environment to grow them. That’s why I visit Longwood Gardens, but it’s not the same as cultivating them yourself. Thanks for your comments and visiting, sally
Beautiful photos. I like 2-5-6, they are my favorite colors
Thanks, and delighted to have you as a visitor, Sally
Amazing photos of amazing orchids! I cant decide between the last 2 though…..
I appreciate your comments, Sally
Gorgeous images (my personal favorite is # 4, closely followed by # 2). Orchids are my secret passion! My east facing living room windows have yielded some amazing blooms and one year I had orchid flowers year-round!
Lucky you–they are one of the most magnificent of the flora. Thanks for visiting, Sally
Beautiful!
Thanks so much for visiting my blog, Sally
No 2 is incredible.
Glad that you enjoyed the post, Sally
As a freelance writer myself, I’m totally digging your “lens and pens” distinction — totally cool idea!
And my personal fave: #2. Though #5 is captivating…
🙂
I appreciate your comment about the title of the blog and the photographs. Thanks, Sally
Sally thank you for following my blog and it is my pleasure to follow yours as well.
One thing i can say to your post is that you have an amazing eye for art and beauty.
I believe it also goes with who you are!! A good person..
Chiboy101
Thank you for your kind words, see you soon on your next post, Sally
Image 2 & 6 are my favorites. I like the composition of each of them. If I had to pick only one, I would choose 2 because of the interesting bloom; I love the spike-like petals. Yet, the simplicity of orchid 6 and its luscious color make the choice a difficult one.
Thanks so much Anne for your kind words. I really like the unfolding bud too. Will definitely look at your site, and thanks for visiting, Sally
2 and 5 are my faves – although it was a tough choice. You have really captured the beauty of the orchid.
Orchids are so enticing, and I’m glad to be able to share what Longwood Gardens has to offer. Thanks Anita, Sally
Your photographs are magnificent – I couldn’t possibly pick a favorite. My father grew orchids when I was a child and they will forever remind me of him and the loving care he gave them.
It’s so nice that you have those fond memories of him. Those sorts of associations are precious treasures. Thanks, Sally