Initial Hellebore of 2010

This afternoon my wife and I took a pre-dusk jaunt around the house, checking out whether any flowers had risen on the early side. The weather had turned relatively colder, that is---normal for this time of year.

Still the progress of the plants seems several weeks ahead of our perceived schedule. In a shaded nook I found this hellebore in full bloom. I less-than-tactfully excused myself and ran in the house to grab the macro lens and the closeup ring flash.

Not my best, but it's colorful and fresh and delivers some hope.

Pentax K20D, Voigtlander 125mm, 1/180 @ f11, ISO 800, Sigma Ring Flash


ME

Well, we are in synch....I did the same thing yesterday w/a walk around the garden and also shot a few blooms from the hellebores ...and a couple of our euphorbia with its florets bright green. Indeed, things are early in Seattle vicinity.

This is a good shot esp of the center...bright and sharp. Always good to see the first signs of spring. Ken S

A few weeks ahead of schedule, nice close-up and nice to see!

David M. Cobb

Spring in January...wonky weather patterns we have these days.

I agree with the others, nice close-up with some great concentration on center elements. It certainly delivers hope for a photographic spring.

Now you've got me salivating! As much as I love all four seasons and appreciate winter photos, winter is my least favorite season for photography. Pining for spring...