FLASHLIGHT CHRONICLES: FLOWERS == HOW TO CREATE STUNNING PHOTOS WITH A FLASHLIGHT 
Gerbera DaisyBy Ken Kishler, Photographer

 you don't need much light to photograph a flower.  in fact, less is better, especially when you want the background to go dark.  
a soft box is too large a light source.  you would have to block the light from falling where you didn't want it.  the same goes for window lighting.
a pocket flashlight, with an opaque film container taped to the front, makes for the perfect light source.  
you can use it to "paint" the light where you want it.  if the flower is large, you just keep the shutter open longer, to give you more time to cover it with light.   


The Gerbera Daisy was stolen from my neighbor's yard, when she wasn't home.  (I hope she doesn't find out)
to bring out the details in the Hibiscus, (below) I passed the light around the edges and behind the flower. trial & error. just as I felt a few drops of rain, I grabbed some scissors and cut this Hibiscus.  once they get wet, they are a sopping mess.
Hibiscus
Anise
Aster
Bee Balm
Dandelion

Geranium
Hydrangea
Lily of the Vallley
Snapdragon

Technical Stuff:
 70mm macro lens - f/10 - 10 second exposure (Hibiscus)                                f/10 -  8  second exposure (Daisy)
light source:  flashlight  The Flashlight with an opaque film container taped to makes for the perfect light source.  



For further information:
Ken Kishler is at manualexposure@yahoo.com(c) Ken Kishler.