It's hard not to smile when someone gives you flowers. No matter the occasion, they are a symbol of affection. Colorful, cheerful, fragrant, and delicate, they are also symbolic of new life every spring.

Photographing them well requires a physical connection, which really means getting down on the ground to their level and studying every angle. I've spent many hours sitting in the dirt, nose to nose with butterflies and bees, zooming in on the intricate details that together, form a perfect blossom.

Please enjoy my photo blog on flowers, gardens, plants and trees.