Richard Stauber
July 2026 - Spring Blooms Along the Trail
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About the Image(s)
The Appalachian Trail runs about 2200 miles from Georgia to Maine and is the longest hiking trail in the world. Part of the trail is just a few miles from and our home in NJ and that is where this image was shot. I was familiar with a growth of rhododendrons and knowing this is the time they bloom, I set out to get a shot with bokeh in the background. To this end I used a 50 mm prime lens and found a suitable location with some background light. The camera was set at 1/100 sec, f/5, iso 400, held with a tripod. Included is a mobile phone image of the setup (of another bloom).
3 comments posted
Hi Richard!
Excellent macrophoto of the flower! The color tones and the shape of the bokeh blend really well with the flower. Nothing in the photo dominates or overwhelms - everything is harmonious and complements each other. I have nothing to add... Posted: 07/13/2026 09:04:06
Excellent macrophoto of the flower! The color tones and the shape of the bokeh blend really well with the flower. Nothing in the photo dominates or overwhelms - everything is harmonious and complements each other. I have nothing to add... Posted: 07/13/2026 09:04:06
Hi Richard
I see you like using the older cameras like me its amazing what they can do .
Nice photo well exposed .
Like the stork line around the photo it's that little pit extra .
But you are a naughty boy not extending the tripod that's one think I did not like in my beginners class
Also a lens hood on backwards take it off if not using it . sorry put it down to old age !
Posted: 07/17/2026 13:49:50
I see you like using the older cameras like me its amazing what they can do .
Nice photo well exposed .
Like the stork line around the photo it's that little pit extra .
But you are a naughty boy not extending the tripod that's one think I did not like in my beginners class
Also a lens hood on backwards take it off if not using it . sorry put it down to old age !
Posted: 07/17/2026 13:49:50
Thanks Norman for your comments. I agree the tripod is more stable with legs extended rather than pole but to assure a steady shot, I used a 3 second delay on the shutter. Posted: 07/17/2026 15:42:30