A Single Flower in Black and White

On first glance this osteospermum looks like something from an alien planet. This impression is greatly enhanced by the black background and the closeness of the photo. The strange shape of the petals makes them almost look like tentacles. The whole composition works so well because it's in black and white. A colour image of the same flower wouldn't have the same impact. Well done.

Absolutely exquisite - I just couldn't get past this simple, yet stunning image. By simple I don't mean that it isn't a great achievement to capture the beauty and delicacy of this flower, but the fact that the composition isn't cluttered but almost minimalistic in it's simplicity. Yet all the details are clearly, yet lovingly shown. Congratulations, you are my clear winner.

Great composition and lighting, well thought out and executed with great care and professionalism. I think it works especially well as the edges of the petals are a contrasting colour and so they are more clearly defined and show up the ruffled edges.

A wonderful example of the intricate and ornate nature of an iris. I'm glad that you were brave enough to use a light background for a light-coloured flower, it really paid off. The composition really works so well due to the right angle and sharp focus on the detail. You captured the beautiful markings perfectly. Thank you.