Please gimme your thought on how to maximize this beauty

[Spriter]

You have truely opened up my mind Tegan and Mindforge. I now understand better what Photoshop and advanced techniques could bring to me.

Helped by the various comments, here is what I did with my limited ability.

Yes, there is still an area out of focus in the foreground. and some bright spot in the lower left part. However, I like the way my eyes follow the curves of petals to reach the carpels and stamen.

I have the impression that she (the flower) is offering herself to me.

Thanks a millions for all your comments. Truly appreciated your great input.

Spriter

[mindforge]

much more interesting, one thing on the crop though. You might try and get the whole flower in it. I wouldn't cut the edges of it off... then again, you might have said this looks better after looking at it that way, so maybe I am wrong.