Unidentified begonia blossoms.
You can see the monochrome version here:  http://smu.gs/zfi3Wl

Hidden Lake Gardens
February 20, 2012
(Canon 50D)
Unidentified begonia blossoms.

Hidden Lake Gardens
February 20, 2012
(Canon 50D)
Unidentified begonia blossoms.
This is a BW conversion with subsequent filtering applied.  

While I like the soft colors of the original, I decided to go for a starker, more high contrast look in the monochrome.  To my eye, it produces a more oriental feel.  I'd like to hear what you think.  The color version is in the Cyber Conservatory - Tender Perennials gallery, here:  http://smu.gs/xA8KOP

Hidden Lake Gardens
February 20, 2012
(Canon 50D)
Often the leaves of begonias are as interesting to me as the flowers, but this variety is an exception.  The flowers have charm and delicacy of color, but the leaves look coarse and out of harmony with the blooms.

Hidden Lake Gardens
February 20, 2012
(Canon 50D)
Warning: This photo has been red thumbed. Viewing it might be harmful! 

Amaryllis buds, like candle flames.
(Or, as Linda says, like a woman's hands, which is a simile that appeals to me.  Thanks, Linda.)

February at the Conservatory.
Unnamed begonia.

Hidden Lake Gardens Conservatory, Temperate Dome
February 20, 2012
(Canon 50D)
Image 35 v03
Filtered:  BW applied to a new layer of v01, then simplified and added back to v01 with reduced opacity.

Amaryllis bloom and bud.

Matthaei Botanical Gardens Conservatory
February 20, 2012
Image 35 v00 ORIGINAL

Amaryllis bloom and bud.

Hidden Lake Gardens Conservatory
February 20, 2012

See filtered versions in the 'Original Gallery', Fun with Filters.
See photo in original gallery.