Saturation in Blue

Zebra Longwings

Zebras

I can't take credit for this one, but it sure is cool!

Sweet Julia

Desert Botanical Garden, April 2008, taken by Margo.

Over Effect?

The last few days I have been perusing some photo blogs (one of my faves: Kellie Kano). I have noticed that a lot of photographers always edit/crop/add effect to their photos. I personally think that a good photographer will take the time to set up a shot correctly, adjusting their exposure, brightness, and focus before snapping the photo. This can result in the perfect photo that doesn't need to be retouched. It seems, with the introduction of Adobe Photoshop and similar programs, that there is an 'effect revolution' of sorts going on. I do prefer the 'unadulterated' shots, if you will. The evidence can be found on Flickr, anytime you browse through the photos.

But, there are a few effects that I do like. One cool effect is saturation: as seen here. And of course my own first attempt at an effect: focal b&w.

Do you like to add effects or retouch your photos? What are your thoughts on this new style of photography?

Bright Yellow

Taken today at the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix, AZ. Special thanks to my husband Dan for picking out the shot!

[No retouch or cropping.]

Ladies in red

This year I decided to try something new to get rid of those pesky aphids. Ladybugs! I bought them from Home Depot - they were anxious to get out and eat! They did their job, but in a few days were no where to be found. I only had aphids come back on one rose plant though. So, I had to resort to the pesticide spray...next year I will buy more than one pack of ladybugs so the aphids don't come back.


Dan's Purple Orchid tree is also blooming this year! In 2006 the tree froze down to the roots and we thought it was a goner. But Dan nursed it back to health, and it is just gorgeous. It smells wonderful too! The flowers are in big bunches.