This image was taken with an all manual Lensbaby lens, which has a built-in creative effect of adding a slight ethereal glow over the details, which created a good balance at an aperture of f/8. This scene, taken in early September, is located in the Helen and Richard Thomas English Walled Garden. The ornate potted Hosta plants which lined the shelves on the brick wall, provided a pleasing focal point when viewed through the blue garden gate, which was left open.

1st place - Chicago Botanic Garden Photo Award