Tiny Things

Here is a glimpse of the garden through my new lens... 

Above, the marguerite daisy (Argyranthemum frutescens) with a bee...

Below, newly planted Armeria...

The new lens arrived a few days ago.  Of course, I have been wandering around the garden in spare moments, trying it out...

Eremophila "Valentine", an open trumpet with its dark stamens...

The smoky white of another newly planted specimen: Echeveria "Lila"...

For those who are interested in the camera side of things, this is an 85mm, f/3.5 Nikkor lens with vibration reduction.  My goal was to have something that would allow macro (which it does at 1:1), and would still be lightweight enough to carry while hiking.  This lens definitely fulfills both requirements.  The vibration reduction feature is important since much of my photography is handheld; unfortunately, while it stabilizes my end of the picture, it does not stop the wind blowing!

I want to add a "thank you" to Julie at Peonies and Posies for thoughtfully answering my questions about her new lens.  Her reply encouraged me to make what is proving a good decision: a lightweight lens with vibration control and a little macro.

There has been a bit of a learning curve; for instance, point of focus is much more critical.  But I am thoroughly enjoying the results...

The growing tip of a just-planted rose, "The Generous Gardener" (David Austin, 2002)...

Smaller still, trying to capture rosemary flowers...

Russelia equisetiformis, coming back into full bloom, shows off its brilliance, even in shade...

...and sunlight through petals, one more look at the Armeria...