First flower shots 2026

[zakslm]

First flower shots of 2026.  It's a bit early, but some of the cactus's are starting to bloom and the desert marigolds are out in force (as are the insects that feed on them).

Canon EOS 90D, EF-S60mm f2.8 Macro USM, f/11, 1/500th sec., ISO 320Canon EOS 90D, EF-S60mm f2.8 Macro USM, f/11, 1/500th sec., ISO 500Canon EOS 90D, EF-S60mm f2.8 Macro USM, f/11, 1/500th sec., ISO 400

[JFG]

Hi zaksim,

Nice shots !  The colors are vivid, sharp, with good contrast and DOF !  

 

[zakslm]

Thank you Joe!

[Tintype_18]

I second JFG's motion. Outstanding photos! Edit: I'm also impressed with the detail of the bees on the flowers.

[zakslm]

John,

Thank you!

I have to acknowledge @March411 for some comments, coaching and critique on some macro shots I previously posted as well as the techniques and settings he shared on some of the recent macro shots he has posted. That advice and trying to emulate his examples have helped. 

Also, I changed the UV filter I had been using on my EF-S60mm f2.8 macro USM to a Hoya HMC UV filter (from an older no name UV multi-coated filter that started to rattle a bit!)  I noticed an increase in sharpness, colors and detail with the Hoya filter in place.  Also, direct, bright sunlight helps too!

I know that there is much debate on using UV filters as lens protectors vs. no filter at all, but I’m convinced that if you use a “filter” use a high quality filter. I think it makes a difference.  

[March411]

That first shot is killer ZL, big fan. The green eyes really pop with the perspective you grabbed in that frame.