Focus layering

[OldClicker]

I blended several layers to get just the foreground parts in focus. Does it look too much like they are just suspended there and not connected? Any other comments? - Terry

[Frog]

I do think they look like they are just suspended and not connected.
BUT not by much. If you can bring the stamens into a little sharper focus, I think it would work great. Basically I really like the photo and appreciate the creativity to make it more than just another flower shot.

Wish I were that creative and had the skill to bring that creativity to fruition.

[Anbesol]

I agree with frog, very cool shot but a little too unreal. I think bringing a slightly stronger focus to the stamens would make it look convincing, great shot!

[ken1953]

Sorry to sound repetetive, but I too am in agreement...a bit more focus on the stamen is needed, and also like Frog said...extremely creative. I'm very intrigued and would love to know how to do this myself!!!

[OldClicker]

Does either of these get 'real'? - TF

[Asmarlak]

I think if you took one shot at f/16, you could have had them all in focus with some focusing on the stamens which would look more natural without having to go through the blending process.

[clayhaus]

The last two shots are pretty similar to my eye. Perhaps, the 3rd images is a bit more "real," though I now see some strange blotches appearing. So, the second one is probably the image to go with for "realness."

This is a good study showing the fine line that (sometimes) exists between real and surreal. And, how subjective it can be.

[Greg McCary]

I think you are getting closer with the last ones but to me it still has a cut and paste look to it. I think maybe there is to much of a contrast difference in the layers.

[OldClicker]

I think if you took one shot at f/16, you could have had them all in focus with some focusing on the stamens which would look more natural without having to go through the blending process.

Nope, not even at f/22. Also, nothing would be as sharp with the smaller aperture. - Terry

[OldClicker]

The last two shots are pretty similar to my eye. Perhaps, the 3rd images is a bit more "real," though I now see some strange blotches appearing. So, the second one is probably the image to go with for "realness."

This is a good study showing the fine line that (sometimes) exists between real and surreal. And, how subjective it can be.

For the second one, I removed some of the top layer over the filiments of the stamens so that they would show through.

For the third, I completely removed the top f/5.6 layer leaving only the stacked f/8 layers. The splotches are how the flower actually looks without the f/5.6 blur.

Thanks,
Terry

[OldClicker]

I think you are getting closer with the last ones but to me it still has a cut and paste look to it. I think maybe there is to much of a contrast difference in the layers.

The blended layers are all RAW with the same Lightroom Presets.

Thanks,
Terry

[Chris350]

personally I like the surreal.... nice use of post p Terry.