Succulents C&C Please

[Nsp1red]

Here are a couple pictures I have taken recently of some succulents my kids are growing. Any feedback is very much appreciated.

#1



#2

 

[tirediron]

Technically (focus, exposure, etc) they look good, but I'd like to see them cropped in a little more tightly, especially #2 where the flowers are (or should be IMO) the centre of attention, but almost half the image is taken up by OOF leaves.

 

[Nsp1red]

Thank you for the feedback. I really liked the first one but there has been something about the second that I did not like even though I thought the flowers were really good. I will crop the OOF leaves out and repost. Thanks again.

Editing my own post Is this better? It is amazing what you see when you crop and zoom...I never noticed the bug in the upper left corner of the yellow flower before.

 

[lambertpix]

The bokeh in #1 is interesting at first glance, but I'm not sure it's really contributing to the photo. In fact, I think the circular shapes might be fighting the "lines & bars" shapes of the subject.

The second shot seems to be really harshly-lit. I'd bet a softer golden-hour light on this scene would help. I'd be tempted to try shooting both of those closer to see if I could really accentuate the subject.

 

[Nsp1red]

Thank you for the feedback. That is an interesting viewpoint on #1. I am going to play with it in post and/or retake the shot as I agree with the shape battle going on there. The second one was taken during late morning so the light is harsh. I will retake both closer although #2 will have to wait it that type of cactus is blooming again .

Thanks again