San Diego in Bloom

Nature Photography

by

Diana Rozenshteyn

Orchid Tree Flower (Bauhinia variegata)

Delicate and vibrant, the Orchid Tree flower, also known as Mountain Ebony, stands out with its rich magenta petals and soft, painterly veins. Also called Mountain Ebony, this tropical bloom brings a touch of elegance to gardens with its orchid-like shape and gentle fragrance. Native to Southeast Asia, it flowers in late winter and spring. This blossom was photographed in a neighborhood garden in San Diego, its bold color glowing softly against a background of green.

Camera: NikonD7500

Lens: Helios 44-2 58mm f/2 with extension tube

Lens effect: Soft vintage glow, enhanced painterly detail, and swirled bokeh created in-camera using classic manual glass and an extension tube for close focus.