Greg Molyneux Photography

New Jersey landscape and nature photography

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Prime Peony

June 4, 2018 by Greg Molyneux

High key macro photo of a peony flower surrounded by bokeh.

Prime Peony — 100mm | f/4 | ISO 100 | EXP 1/320

It was a great season for peonies in my neck of the woods—Ocean County, New Jersey. Backloaded winters aside, it seems extended cool, wet conditions are a peony’s friend. Check out the peony floral arrangements Eastlin Floral Design was busy putting together. This flower species is a serious boon to any bouquet.

As for my yard, it boasted a few primetime peony blossoms in 2018. They made an excellent subject for my 100mm macro lens. Lighting conditions proved ideal for creating a dreamy, high key picture set in a cool tone. Had the late afternoon sun been direct, a yellow tone with strong shadows and highlights would have cast a far different look. A high overcast was pivotal here, keeping a standout rose pink color tone on the peony petals.

To further maximize the high key effect from ample filtered ambient light I was at an open(ish) f/4 aperture at 100mm. Coupled with a close subject proximity this renders an airy focus and bokeh for days. The end result is a center weight flower macro evoking a calm, easygoing mood.

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Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: 100mm bokeh flowers high key macro peony soft focus

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  1. Best Photographs of 2018 — Greg Molyneux Photography says:
    December 24, 2019 at 2:35 pm

    […] Prime Peony | Captured: May 26, 2018 | Location: Ocean Acres, New Jersey […]

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