It is hard to think of a better way to begin a photographic year than with "in-your-face" red of amaryllis blossoms.  They are such a great subject in all stages that I had to spend some time shooting them.  Using several different black backgrounds and rendering them to show the various depths and darkness of those blacks, it was an excellent exercise to begin the year.  In the end, I cannot chose a favorite.  Each is different and interesting.

In the first example, the wax in which the bulb is encased and the flowers are almost a muted red, with the black going from deep black to medium grey because way I chose to situate it in the light.

amaryllis in wax 4

In the second example the background is a slightly more uniform grey.

amaryllis in wax 1

Example # 3 is lit from left to right but the background is closer to uniform grey.  The backdrops share all their gnarly glory with spots and variations.  I think this particular shot is closer to the concept of botanical drawing or painting.

amaryllis in wax 2

I made the shot below a little darker, making the amaryllis stand out more against the grey/black background.

amaryllis in wax 5

This final color photograph has a lot of added black, which leaves no variation in the background, and giving the flowers a much bolder and other-worldly look.

amaryllis in wax 3

Finally, the toned version below shows that black and white is also effective for this type of botanical.

amaryllis toned

Thanks to Ingrid and Robert for today's subject matter and creative suggestions, and to all of you who commented this week including Geula, Marilyn, Karen, Christina, Orlando, Wayne, Terry T., Dianne, Jean and Sam, Catherine, Kelly S., Barbara, Lisa, Victoria, Bill and Sue, Debra, Karla, Steve, Elida, and Donna C. Many thanks!  

until next Monday,

DB

a passion for the image@