May Theme Assignment

Our next Oak City Clicks assignment is all about Flowers—bursting with color, detail, and beauty. Here are 10 tips to make your floral shots stand out:

1. Get Close – Fill the frame with petals, patterns, and textures by moving in tight for dramatic macro-style shots.

2. Look for Unique Angles – Try shooting from beneath a bloom, at petal level, or from directly overhead to find a fresh perspective.

3. Use Natural Light – Early morning or golden hour light is ideal for soft, flattering shadows and rich color.

4. Watch the Background – A cluttered background can distract—use a plain backdrop or change your angle to isolate the flower.

5. Tap to Focus on Petals or Stamens – Your phone may autofocus elsewhere, so make sure your key details are sharp.

6. Capture Rain or Dew – Droplets add sparkle and visual interest, especially when they catch the light.

7. Experiment with Composition – Try centering your subject, using the rule of thirds, or placing blooms along diagonals.

8. Find Color Contrast – Bold backgrounds (green leaves, blue skies) can make bright petals pop.

9. Photograph in the Shade – Avoid harsh sunlight; soft shade helps preserve detail and color.

10. Edit Lightly, if at All – Boosting contrast or saturation a touch is fine, but let the flower’s natural beauty shine through.

The Triangle area is full of beautiful spots for photographing blooms. Here are some top picks across Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill where you can catch flowers in full glory:

🌸 Raleigh

1. JC Raulston Arboretum – A hidden gem with over 6,000 types of plants, including stunning seasonal blooms. Ideal for macro and landscape shots.

2. WRAL Azalea Gardens – Gorgeous in spring, especially during peak azalea bloom. Great for color contrast and layering.

3. Dorothea Dix Park – Famous for its sunflower fields in summer, but also a scenic spot year-round with various plantings and open fields.

4. North Carolina Museum of Art Park – Lovely mix of wildflowers, sculptures, and walking trails. Great for blending nature and art.

5. Pullen Park – A charming urban park with landscaped flower beds, perfect for candid and close-up shots.

🌼 Durham

1. Sarah P. Duke Gardens – One of the most photogenic spots in the Triangle. The terraces, native plant gardens, and cherry blossoms offer endless inspiration.

2. Duke University East Campus – Lush, collegiate green spaces with spring blooms and tree-lined walkways.

3. Eno River State Park – Great for wildflowers along the trails in spring and early summer, with bonus water features.

🌷 Chapel Hill

1. Coker Arboretum (UNC Campus) – A peaceful, botanical haven with native species and blooming trees. Beautiful in spring!

2. North Carolina Botanical Garden – Dedicated to native plants, this garden offers a diverse range of blooms perfect for close-up work.

Happy shooting—can’t wait to see your floral flair bloom! 🌸📷✨