23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Artistic
Sacred Bloom

A lotus blossom in Sri Lanka reveals its intricate center—petals, stamens, and seed pod arranged in striking natural symmetry. The close view transforms the flower into a serene, sculptural form.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 07.2024
Date Uploaded: 11.2025
Photo Location: Dambulla, Sri Lanka
Camera: OM-1MarkII
Copyright: © Jacqueline Burke