Let's debate...

Do you like Susan1 or Susan 2 better? I like #2 but it bothers me that the flower in the foreground is out of focus. If I crop it it will be come Susan 1, won't it? Also, how is the lighting? These flowers are in my yard so I can keep trying utilizing your suggestions and guidance. Thanks!

Okay - this is only Susan1, I'll see if I can get 2 on here.

I like the first one best. Cropping is a matter of taste. The lighting looks good to me.

Thanks Greg. C'mon people - give me some ideas for improving this shot! Please??? I can step right outside and re-shoot it so give me feedback!

I really have a tough time with flowers myself. But here's what works best for me. I try and always use a tripod and a lower speed film, but im sure your digital. I seem to get better color from a lower speed film. When your dealing with macro it don't take much movement to cause your shot to be soft. Try and shoot on a cloudy day. Watch what's in your DOF. Nothing to distracting from your main subject. I always use a polarizer too. It helps even on a cloudy day. This is about as good as I can get. I have seen some flower shots on here that smoke mine but im trying.... Good luck. Your shots maybe a little busy for my taste and maybe find a more interesting flower, it's still a good shot in my book. Your focus is good and great color to. Maybe a different angle.
Now if you don't mind go back and check out my cropped peace sign and see if you like it better. Thanks, Greg

I will check out your cropped peace sign. Thanks for the comments - I will try using the tripod and see what happens. Thanks again.

I have to go with #1. Much stronger composition IMHO. The foreground is distracting in #2.

I like the shot with more in it. The colorful blurred fore and back ground makes it. The other shot is a little too clipped on the sides for me.

GB