Manual Flash...mmm.O.k I think this was shot in darkness? From my experience shooting flora...I'm no expert...Search the gallery for keywords "sweet spot", or golden light and look at the flora photos,review the settings used, time of day. Lighting is everything in eye popping flora work.
In good light I underexpose, use Manual flash to 1/32nd level...this works for me to grab saturated colors, texture.The Golden hours are the best light you could ask for, look for filtered light, shaded, or early A.M. Experiment using manual flash in steps.Also,I'm Interested...Are you AF or manual focusing,using a tripod ?
Keep shooting,before you know it... you'll be helping others. :O)
