Yellow Rose Preference

[EdV]

Spent some time this morning working with this miniature rose plant. All images were made with my 30D and Sigma 70mm macro lens mounted on a small Velbon tripod. I decided to go with the natural light coming in the windows and skylights.

These are three nearly identical images varying only in aperture value (and of course, shutter speed). I can't decide whether I prefer the detail of stopped down to f/22 or the more dreamy/creamy feel of opening it up.

These are all 1:1 images.

Your thoughts?

8 sec @ f/22; ISO 100; +1 EV; Shade WB
http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s1/EdV_02/024-Edit-1.jpg

1/2 sec @ f/5.6; ISO 100; +1 EV; Shade WB
http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s1/EdV_02/030-Edit-2.jpg

1/8 sec @ f/3.2; ISO 100; +1 EV; Shade WB
http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s1/EdV_02/035-Edit-3.jpg

[racketman]

on balance I would go for #2. Good to see a Sigma 70mm in action, has a fine reputation but not sure i've seen examples here before.

[rraman]

Very nice shots. I like #3 for it's dreamy/soft effect.

[brecklundin]

I like #1 and #3 equally. I am drawn to the crisper shot of #1 yet as you mention the soft dreamy effect on #3 is very attractive also. I would imagine all three would get a pretty equal distribution in a poll all depending on individual preferences.

If forced to choose I would pick #1 simply because I am usually drawn to well defined geometry over something more ethereal.

Super shots...gives me something to shoot for when I see all these wonderful shots.