This photo, taken several years ago at Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge (how’s that for a long title?), is probably the best one I made with my Sigma 50mm macro lens. I’ve since moved to Canon’s 100mm f/2.8 macro, which I am very happy with. Although one of the 180mm macros would be lovely, I do not do enough field macro work to make it worthwhile. Plus they’re pretty big and heavy!
Adam Paul 
What a truly great photo! Perfect!
Beautiful shot and the way you have composed the whole flower with the snail makes it a amazing composition as well
The purple really jumps out at you from the background of stems. The snail is an intriguing addition. I’m trying to figure out how it got onto that petal in that particular position without munching any of the other petals for breakfast.
Yes, the 180mm macro is one to dream about… i’m currently dreaming of a 400mm f/2.8 but am more likely to rent than own.
Montucky: Thanks!
Thomas: nice of you to say. At that time in my photography, I suspect any compositional brilliance was entirely accidental 🙂
Red: Yikes, are you planning on hiring a Sherpa to haul that lens around for you? If your primary interest is wildlife, go for the 500 f/4, or, much cheaper & lighter, the 400 f/5.6. Or the 300 f/4 w/a 1.4x TC (what I use these days).
Don’t see that everyday.
Wonderful color and light Adam, the snail adds a great touch !!