Pacific Orchid Expo 2011
Orchid overload is a common side effect of the Pacific Orchid Expo. Surrounded by so many floral gems, it can be tough to figure out where to point the camera. Sure, there are standouts like this incredible lady slipper, but with 150,000 orchids to choose from, a bit of vertigo sets in. Fortunately, Dave is a level-headed guy, so you can enjoy photos of a harlequin Phal, a sunny Miltonia, and an award-winning black Dracula.
I look one way, and there’s a colorful Epidendrum hybrid. In another direction, there’s a related species with a striking flower lip. One more turn leaves me gasping at the impossible shape of a Bulbophyllum bloom.
No sooner do I regain my senses than I’m struck by some unusual Masdevallias. Whether human-made hybrid or naturally-occurring species, each offers a distinct beauty and charm.
Dendrobiums offer even more variety, making it difficult to see the similarities between related plants. In the next 2 photos, they share some colors, but their shapes seem irreconcilable. Lastly, the dizzying pattern on a Phal hybrid falls into focus for the camera lens. It’s enough to make my head spin.
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March 15th, 2011 at 6:05 pm
Wow, those are kind of magical. Orchds are my favorites.
March 20th, 2011 at 4:19 pm
[…] While San Francisco’s winter hasn’t been as bad as other parts of the country, spring is always a welcome arrival. It’s easy to celebrate with more beautiful flowers from this year’s Pacific Orchid Expo. […]
March 21st, 2011 at 3:44 pm
I really like these shots, esp the flowres with strange parts. The shapes and colors don’t even look real.
March 30th, 2011 at 12:51 am
These are amazing Orchid shots. You can capture the beautiful side of them. Great job!
April 2nd, 2011 at 10:17 am
That dracula is the blackest flower I’ve ever seen!! Thanks for sharing your photographs.