It's been a tough year around here for Dahlia growers with the wettest spring in recent history followed by almost no rain at all and extreme heat (90+) for 6 to 8 weeks after that. Overall entries in our local show where less than half the normal amount, but some of the one's entered were indeed exceptional once again!

Anyway, my wife and I are suckers for these big blooms, but had nothing worth showing this year and that was a big disappointment for her. I've posted a few photos from the show that I hope illustrate the beauty and variety of these special flowers. Please consider that most of these blooms are over 8" across with some as big as 12" and you'll realize what I mean about "Big Blooms."

Overall, I think some of the photos turned out pretty good considering the show is inside a local Mall, the flowers are all displayed on tables behind barriers, I shot them all low key style and hand held with my K3's built in flash, and I could not manipulate or reposition the flowers in any way. Your comments are welcome and thanks for looking. Enjoy!