The truth is that whenever I'm going to the market to buy flowers, I tend to gravitate toward the same types of flowers each time. Color is part of that decision, but I also look for flowers based on the shape of the petals and longevity.

I have always been a fan of roses. The variety based on shape, size, and color are unmatched. But the real reason I love roses are the petals - the layers and curves remind me of a symphony. The more the rose blooms and opens, the more beautiful it gets. A bonus is if you can get a hybrid colored rose...although I would caution strongly against any artificially-colored flowers - something that is common with roses, carnations, and daisies. 

The truth is: I love alstroemeria for reasons beyond photography. This flower comes in a ton of colors, will last a week or longer in a vase, and is inexpensive. For photography, though, they provide unpredictable glimpse into the anatomy of flowers. The stamen are wild and move into whatever shape or direction they so choose. The petals will open in a similar manner, not really following what is expected of them.

Many of us have probably seen a large patch of tulips and admired how lovely they are. Some of use may have been lucky to see a field of tulips. Oftentimes, the outside is the subject of our photographs. But have you ever looked on the inside? The inside of tulips provide a magnificent, surprising, and almost psychedelic scene that you would never know was there by just admiring the inside. It's a secret they all hold, and with each different color tulip will give you a different surprise.

Gerbera daisies...where do I begin? These flowers have large blooms, much larger than a traditional daisy. They also come in a variety of bright colors, without being spray painted! Some have a gradient color on the petals, some are uniform. The petals themselves have a bit of grace and delicacy to them that allow them to bend ever so slightly. The other thing about Gerbera daisies? They fairly easy to grow at hope, and as a potted plant! So if you see one calling you at the Garden Center, go for it!

I'm pretty sure there are an infinite number of dahlia species. Ok...that's probably not true. Regardless, dahlias come in a variety of shapes and styles, and yes, colors! What I love about the dahlia pictured here is that the color is bright and only on the edges of the petal, giving the impression of flames (but in flower form!). Dahlias are also one kind of flower that is beautiful from many angles, allowing me to stretch my creativity. 

Carnations are the trick play here. Growing up, when I was learning about flower arranging, carnations were the popular pick - they're sturdy, long-lasting, and inexpensive. They were used for sending Valentine-grams in high school. They were in nearly every corsage at school dances. They were everywhere. Needless to say, by the time I graduated high school, I was so over them! I would avoid them at nearly all cost. And then, recently, I grew to appreciate them again. You see, when you take time to notice the details, they are stunning. They also may come in hybrid colors, like the one here, and have an emotion all their own. To all of the carnations out there: I'm sorry I temporarily disowned you. I hope you can forgive me!

Interested in seeing more macro images? Please visit the Macro Gallery on my portfolio site! All images in the gallery are available for purchase.